CDC Investigates Deadly Illness Outbreak Associated with Morel Mushrooms

Although morels are usually safe to eat, they were linked to a deadly illness outbreak in Montana last year. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention conducted an investigation, detailed in a report released on Thursday, to uncover what caused the problem.

False morels are poisonous mushrooms, and they're a delicacy in Finland. Helsinki chef Kim Mikkola makes them safe for us to eat.

False morels are poisonous mushrooms, and they're a delicacy in Finland. Helsinki chef Kim Mikkola makes them safe for us to eat.

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Morels, which many consider to be a delicacy, have a honeycomb-like appearance and emerge from the ground for just a few weeks early in the year.

Morels are often the first mushrooms to appear in spring, making them even more mysterious, according to Dr. Greg Mueller, chief scientist emeritus at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

These prized mushrooms are highly sought after by mushroom hunters and are frequently found on the menus of upscale restaurants.

"They taste really good," mentioned Dr. Matthew Nelsen, a research scientist at the Field Museum in Chicago.

This could be the reason why morels were included in a special sushi roll at Dave's Sushi in Bozeman, Montana, which was at the center of a CDC investigation. The sushi roll was made with salmon and a few other menu items during March and April 2023. However, when two individuals passed away after consuming it, the CDC was called in to assist in determining what went awry.

The local health department released a statement asking the public to report any additional illnesses related to the outbreak. After eating at the restaurant, several individuals called in to report feeling extremely sick.

Mushrooms are having a moment, mycologists say. Since the pandemic more people are foraging for fungi.

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In the end, a total of 51 people said they felt unwell after dining at the restaurant. Out of these, 45 mentioned consuming the morels specifically between March and April last year.

Majority of those who fell ill experienced symptoms such as vomiting and intense diarrhea. Four individuals were in such bad shape that they had to rush to the emergency room, while three had to be admitted to the hospital. Unfortunately, two individuals with pre-existing health issues did not make it.

The CDC investigation found that the morel mushrooms came from China and were sold to restaurants in California. Fortunately, no one in California reported feeling unwell after consuming them.

It was discovered that the way the morels were prepared could be the key difference between those who fell ill and those who did not.

At the Montana restaurant, morels were served lightly cooked or raw, while at California restaurants, they were thoroughly cooked.

The report mentioned that even though the toxins in morel mushrooms are not completely understood and could potentially cause illness, following proper preparation methods such as thorough cooking could help reduce any negative health impacts.

The CDC advises storing morels in the refrigerator at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius), in breathable packaging like a paper bag. It is also recommended to cook morels thoroughly before consuming.

According to Mueller, it is best to cook all types of mushrooms, including morels. Cooking mushrooms helps break down toxins present in them, making them safer to eat. Additionally, Mueller believes that cooking enhances the flavor of mushrooms, as raw mushrooms tend to lack flavor.

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Over the past 15 years, there have been approximately 150 cases of mushroom sickness from morels, according to him. It's not a common occurrence, but it does happen. Mueller mentioned that in nearly every instance, the mushrooms were eaten raw or not cooked properly.

Some people may experience sickness after consuming morels, according to Nelsen. To be cautious, it is recommended to start with a small portion if you are unsure of how your body will respond to them.

Nelsen mentioned that there is still much unknown about morels and how they can impact individuals. He emphasized that various mushrooms can have different effects on people and further research is needed to understand what specifically causes adverse reactions.

When foraging for morels, it is important to pick true morels and avoid false morels. False morels contain toxins that can cause serious illness even after cooking.

Editor's P/S:

The recent outbreak of deadly illnesses linked to morels highlights the importance of proper mushroom preparation and identification. While morels are generally considered safe to eat, they can pose a serious health risk if not handled correctly. The CDC's investigation revealed that the morels involved in the outbreak were imported from China and likely undercooked. This underscores the need for thorough cooking of all mushrooms, regardless of their perceived safety.

Furthermore, the article emphasizes the ongoing research into the potential health effects of morels. While some individuals may experience adverse reactions, more studies are needed to determine the specific causes and risk factors. It is advisable to consume morels in moderation and consult a medical professional if you experience any discomfort after eating them. By following proper preparation guidelines and seeking expert advice when necessary, we can enjoy the culinary delights of morels while minimizing the potential health risks. precautions, individuals can enjoy the culinary delights of morels while minimizing the risk of adverse health effects.