Experts Warn of Rising Toxic Mushroom Poisoning Risks in Sweden
Swedish experts highlight the rising risks of toxic mushroom poisoning as the season progresses, urging caution among foragers.
Key Points
- • About 100 poisoning cases reported this year in Sweden.
- • Toxic mushrooms include white and deceitful fly agaric.
- • Amatoxins and orellanin pose life-threatening risks.
- • Novice foragers should avoid mushrooms with white gills.
As the mushroom season unfolds in Sweden, health experts are issuing urgent warnings regarding the heightened risk of toxic mushroom poisonings. This year, the Poison Information Centre has recorded nearly 100 calls for assistance related to mushroom poisoning, with patients requiring medical intervention. Among the most concerning species are those containing the potent toxins amatoxins and orellanin, which have the potential to cause life-threatening health issues.
Peter Hultén, a pharmacist affiliated with the Poison Information Centre, notes that out of approximately 5,000 mushroom species found in Sweden, only about 100 are deemed edible. He cautions that the white fly agaric and the deceitful fly agaric are particularly hazardous, as they can easily be mistaken for more common edible varieties, such as the champignon. Initial symptoms of poisoning typically include gastrointestinal distress, which may improve temporarily but can subsequently lead to severe liver damage or even liver failure within a couple of days.
Orellanin is encountered in mushrooms like the top poisonous webcap, and symptoms following exposure may include nausea and chills, often manifesting a few days after ingestion and leading to potential kidney damage.
Historically, deadly mushroom poisonings have primarily involved species containing amatoxins; however, there have been no fatalities reported in Sweden this year. Despite the absence of death cases, the risk remains substantial, particularly for inexperienced foragers.
For safety, experts recommend a simple guiding rule for novice mushroom pickers: avoid mushrooms that have white gills, and brown mushrooms should also be approached with caution. Michael Krikorev, a mycologist, emphasizes the importance of educating oneself about toxic species, encouraging the public to seek advice from mushroom consultants. As the mushroom foraging activity intensifies, individuals are urged to take these warnings seriously to avoid potentially fatal consequences during this mushroom season.