Citation

Robinson JP, MacLeod DS, Taylor DM, Lebel T, May TW. Aust. N. Zeal. J. Public Health 2006; 30(3): 279-280.

Affiliation

Victorian Poisons Information Centre, Royal Children's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria. jeff.robinson@rch.org.au

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Public Health Association of Australia, Publisher John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16800207

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine if toxic mushroom species are sold at Melbourne fruit and vegetable markets. METHODS: We purchased a specimen of every mushroom on sale at six large Melbourne markets on four separate days evenly spread during the period April to June, 2005. These specimens were identified by a specialist mycologist at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. RESULTS: Ten edible mushroom species, but no toxic species, were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Mushrooms purchased from Melbourne markets appear to be safe. IMPLICATIONS: While this study provides no evidence that public health is at risk from mushrooms sold at Melbourne markets, it has important limitations. Ongoing periodic surveillance is warranted.

Language: en