Morel Mushrooms

Morel mushrooms (Morchella spp.) are a popular variety amongst foragers for their earthy and nutty flavour and are generally considered safe to eat. However, they must be well cooked before consumption as they can cause both gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms when consumed undercooked.

People should also be careful not to confuse a true morel (Morchella spp.) with a false morel (Gyromitra spp.), which look very similar and can be highly toxic. Wrongly identifying and consuming toxic mushrooms is a common problem that can lead to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, and in rare cases, death.

How to stay safe when eating wild mushrooms:

• Mushrooms (even those that are generally considered safe to eat) must be fully cooked before eating.
• Mushrooms must be properly stored (i.e. paper bag in fridge) before preparing them to reduce the chance of bacterial growth.
• Ensure the mushrooms you have picked are not a poisonous species, as cooking does not destroy the toxins of most poisonous mushrooms.
• When foraging in nature, be aware that lookalike mushrooms can be highly toxic.
• Only eat wild mushrooms that have been identified by someone with expertise.
• If you’re unsure of identification, do not eat the mushroom.

If you develop symptoms after eating mushrooms, contact the Ontario Poison Centre immediately at 1-800-268-9017.

For more information on mushroom foraging, check out this infographic or watch this video from the Ontario Poison Centre.

Source: True Morel Mushrooms webpage, Ontario Poison Centre.