Around 700 people intoxicated by wild mushrooms in France this autumn

Around 700 mushroom poisoning cases have been reported in France since September, with health authorities warning people to be careful when collecting or eating them. 

In September, nearly 500 cases were reported to poison control centres after people picked up and ate mushrooms, with more than 200 already recorded since October 1, according to France's national food safety agency Anses. 

Meanwhile, more than 1,300 mushroom poisoning cases were reported to French poison control centres in 2025, with most occurring during the main foraging season between July and December.

However, most poisonings caused digestive symptoms, 3% were classified as severe in 2025. One person died and three others required liver transplants typically following poisoning by death cap mushrooms.

The usual cause behind the poisoning is either people confusing an edible species with a poisonous one, not storing mushrooms correctly or eating ones that have gone bad or were not properly cooked. Eating large quantities can also be a reason. 

The agency also said that phone apps that are meant to identify which mushrooms are safe to eat can make mistakes and should not be relied upon. 

How to check if wild mushrooms are safe to eat

Anses advises people to collect only mushrooms they can identify with certainty, as some highly poisonous varieties can resemble edible species.

If you are unsure, it is better not to eat it until it has been checked. Mushrooms can be checked by certain pharmacists or a local mycology association, which specialises in the study of fungi.

Additionally, when collected mushrooms should be in good condition, with both the cap and the stem intact to help with identification. 

Young ones that have not fully developed or ones which are old or damaged should be avoided, as they can be harder to identify or may have gone bad.

Mushrooms growing near roads, industrial areas, rubbish dumps and other polluted areas should also be avoided as they can absorb environmental pollutants. 

Regarding tools, a basket, crate or cardboard box is better than a plastic bag, which can speed up deterioration. Different species should also be kept separate to avoid mixing potentially poisonous mushrooms with edible ones.

How to store and cook mushrooms safely

After collecting mushrooms you should store them in a refrigerator at a maximum of 4C, away from other foods. They should be eaten within two days of picking.

They should also be cooked for around 20 to 30 minutes in a frying pan or 15 minutes in boiling water, with the cooking water discarded. However, cooking does not make every poisonous mushroom safe to eat.

People should also eat mushrooms in moderation. Anses recommends a maximum of 150 to 200g per adult per week.

Wild mushrooms should also not be given to young children and are also better to be kept away from older people and pregnant women as well, as they may face additional risks from poisoning or foodborne infections.

What to do if you feel unwell after eating mushrooms

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, tremors and visual disturbances. Symptoms may appear several hours after a meal, and in some cases more than 12 hours later.

If you develop any of these symptoms after eating mushrooms, you should immediately contact a poison control centre. In an emergency, call 15 or 112.

If poisoning is suspected, note the time the mushrooms were eaten and when symptoms began. 

It is also good to keep any remaining mushrooms or leftovers from the meal, as these may help specialists identify the species and determine the appropriate treatment.