California Issues Warning Against Consuming Foraged Wild Mushrooms

Recent rainfall has contributed to widespread growth of toxic death cap mushrooms across the state, significantly increasing the risk of accidental exposure.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The County of Santa Barbara Health Department is issuing an updated warning regarding the dangers of consuming foraged wild mushrooms after the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) reported that recent rainfall has contributed to widespread growth of toxic death cap mushrooms across California, significantly increasing the risk of accidental exposure. Between November 18 and January 18, the California Poison Control System (CPCS) has identified 39 hospitalized cases including 4 deaths, and 3 liver transplants linked to the ongoing outbreak.

Why it matters

Poisonous mushrooms can look and taste like safe mushrooms, and people newly arrived to California who are accustomed to foraging in their home country may mistake poisonous mushrooms for safe ones. Foragers in California face great risk, and even experienced mushroom foragers can make dangerous mistakes.

The details

The County of Santa Barbara Health Department is urging residents not to pick or eat wild mushrooms, as death cap mushrooms are still poisonous after cooking, boiling, freezing or drying. Symptoms of death cap mushroom poisoning typically begin 6 to 24 hours after ingestion and may include nausea, vomiting, watery diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should call 911 immediately.

  • Between November 18 and January 18, the California Poison Control System (CPCS) has identified 39 hospitalized cases including 4 deaths, and 3 liver transplants linked to the ongoing outbreak.

The players

California Department of Public Health (CDPH)

The state public health department that reported the widespread growth of toxic death cap mushrooms across California.

California Poison Control System (CPCS)

The system that has identified 39 hospitalized cases including 4 deaths, and 3 liver transplants linked to the ongoing mushroom poisoning outbreak.

Dr. Henning Ansorg

The Public Health Officer who strongly urged residents to avoid consuming wild mushrooms altogether during this high-risk period.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Even experienced mushroom foragers can make dangerous mistakes. Given the recent rain and the serious outcomes reported statewide, we strongly urge residents to avoid consuming wild mushrooms altogether during this high-risk period.”

— Dr. Henning Ansorg, Public Health Officer

The takeaway

This warning highlights the serious risks of consuming foraged wild mushrooms, even for experienced foragers, and underscores the importance of only purchasing mushrooms from trusted grocery stores and retailers to avoid accidental poisoning.