Minnesota Sees Surge in Wild Mushroom Poisoning Calls Amid Bumper Crop
MINNEAPOLIS — The recent warm, wet summer in the Midwest has led to a significant increase in wild mushroom growth, resulting in a spike in calls to poison control centers across the region.
The Minnesota Regional Poison Center reported that calls regarding potential mushroom poisonings from April through July surged more than threefold compared to the same period last year. The center received 90 calls in that timeframe, up from 26 calls during the same months last year. These cases involve individuals who have either come into contact with potentially harmful mushrooms or are experiencing related symptoms.
Director Samantha Lee noted that many cases involve children and inexperienced foragers. However, these figures do not account for inquiries from those simply curious about the mushrooms appearing in their surroundings.
“Fortunately, the majority of calls tend to involve mild symptoms,” Lee stated. “Many incidents are linked to mushrooms found in yards or local parks, leading to symptoms such as upset stomachs, vomiting, and diarrhea. Nonetheless, there are instances each year that result in severe health outcomes.”
The trend is evident throughout wetter regions of the U.S. this spring and summer, as calls to poison control centers have increased by 26% nationwide from April to June. Clinical managing director of America’s Poison Centers observed that specific areas are experiencing heightened volumes due to fluctuating weather conditions, although precise state-by-state data is lacking.
Amid this increase, the Minnesota poison center has issued alerts regarding the challenges of identifying wild mushrooms without proper training. While some common varieties cause mild reactions—such as little brown mushrooms or small white mushrooms that form “fairy rings”—dangerous species, including the notorious “death angel,” pose a serious threat and can lead to liver failure.
Foraging for edible mushrooms has gained popularity in recent years, a trend accelerated by the pandemic. Experts indicate that the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area is currently experiencing a particularly fruitful season for mushrooms, thanks to the combination of a previous drought followed by this spring’s unusually wet and cool conditions.
To safely navigate the world of wild mushrooms, experienced foragers recommend heading out with knowledgeable guides. While there are various field guides available, experts warn against reliance on identification apps and caution that some AI-generated resources can provide misleading information, leading to critical mistakes.
“This is a risky endeavor for those without experience,” Martignacco emphasized, advising anyone interested in foraging to seek guidance.
As the popularity of wild mushroom foraging continues to rise, so too does the importance of education and safety to prevent dangerous encounters with poisonous varieties.
