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Molds On Food: Are They Dangerous?
Is Mushroom Poisoning Caused by Molds?
No, it is due to the toxin produced by the fungi,
which are in the same family as molds. Mushroom poisoning is caused by the
consumption of raw or cooked mushrooms, which are higher-species of fungi. The
term “toadstool” (from the German “Todesstuhl” -- death's stool) is commonly
given to poisonous mushrooms, but there is no general rule of thumb for
distinguishing edible mushrooms from poisonous toadstools. The toxins that cause
mushroom poisoning are produced naturally by the fungi. Most mushrooms that
cause human poisoning cannot be made safe by cooking, canning, freezing, or any
other processing. The only way to avoid poisoning is not to eat poisonous
mushrooms. USDA United States Department
of Agriculture
Food Safety and Inspection Service
http://www.fsis.usda.gov
September 2005 |
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