Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Poisonous mushrooms grow around Victoria, especially during the autumn months.
  • The Yellow-staining mushroom (Agaricus xanthodermus) is the most commonly-eaten poisonous mushroom in Victoria.
  • Consuming the Death Cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides) may result in death.
  • Unless you are an expert, do not pick and consume wild mushrooms in Victoria.
  • There is no ‘home test’ that can help you tell the difference between edible and poisonous mushrooms.
  • It is recommended that you only eat mushrooms you’ve bought from the supermarket, greengrocer or another reputable source.
  • Symptoms include severe gastrointestinal upsets such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
  • If the person who has eaten the mushroom has collapsed, stopped breathing, is having a fit or is suffering an anaphylactic reaction, immediately ring triple zero (000) for an ambulance. 
  • If you suspect you or your child may have eaten a poisonous mushroom, don’t wait for symptoms to occur before seeking medical attention. Contact the Victorian Poisons Information Centre for advice (Tel 13 11 26).

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 22-05-2023