Expert warns about the risks of buying mushrooms from private sellers

It is not recommended to buy mushrooms from private sellers along roads and in places of spontaneous trade, since they are capable of accumulating heavy metals and radionuclides. Elena Slynko, associate professor of the Department of Biology, Veterinary Expertise and Biosafety at ROSBIOTECH University, said this in an interview with RT.

According to her, fresh mushrooms should not be left at room temperature for more than three hours. When stored for a long time, the proteins in them begin to break down, which is why even an edible product can become toxic. “You should not buy mushrooms from private individuals along roads and in places of spontaneous trade: they, like a sponge, absorb heavy metals and radionuclides,” the specialist noted.

Symptoms of poisoning depend on the type of mushroom and the toxin it contains. In some cases, the first symptoms appear within 30 minutes, and in others - three hours after consumption. The latent period can last 6–12 hours or longer. Among the possible symptoms, the expert identified nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, abdominal pain, dizziness and headache. In case of severe poisoning, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and liver and kidney damage are possible.

If signs of poisoning appear, you should seek medical help as soon as possible. The specialist advised saving the remaining mushrooms and cooked food, as this may help identify the toxin. Self-medication should not replace medical care.