News On Japan

Poisonous Mushrooms Spread: Chiba Park Hosts Deadly Varieties

TOKYO, Oct 23 (News On Japan) - This year, Japan has seen an unusually large harvest of mushrooms as autumn sets in. However, with this bountiful season comes a dangerous reality -- poisonous mushrooms are also flourishing, leading to several food poisoning incidents across the country.

In Chiba Park, a particularly deadly species, commonly referred to as the "Death Cap," was discovered, adding to the growing concern over public safety.

On October 18th, a man from Tokushima Prefecture brought mushrooms he had foraged from the mountains to an okonomiyaki restaurant. Eight people, including himself, consumed the mushrooms, only to suffer severe symptoms of food poisoning later that day, including vomiting and diarrhea. Three people were hospitalized. It was later confirmed that the mushrooms were the poisonous "Tsukiyotake," a variety often mistaken for edible types like shiitake or hiratake.

The problem isn’t limited to rural areas. Poisonous mushrooms are increasingly spreading to urban environments. Along the banks of the Tama River, the "Oshirokarakasatake" mushroom, which resembles a common edible mushroom, was found in multiple locations. This species is particularly dangerous, causing violent poisoning symptoms if ingested. Local residents, some of whom had never seen these types of mushrooms before, were alarmed by the discovery.

Experts believe that the proliferation of poisonous mushrooms may be linked to climate change. Toshimitsu Fukiharu, a former researcher at the Chiba Prefectural Central Museum, explained that mushrooms like the Oshirokarakasatake, which were originally found in tropical regions, are now spreading northward as Japan’s climate warms. Areas like the Kanto region, where such mushrooms were once rare, are now experiencing a dramatic increase in sightings.

In response to these developments, a mushroom observation event was held in Chiba Park on October 6th, where participants identified and learned about different species. However, even during this educational outing, dangerous mushrooms were found. One of the more concerning discoveries was the "Fukuroutsurutake," another highly toxic species. Experts explained that consumption of this mushroom could lead to fatal poisoning, affecting the liver and kidneys after initial gastrointestinal distress.

The surge in poisonous mushrooms poses a significant public health risk, as even experienced mushroom foragers have been affected. One participant in the mushroom observation event recalled his own ordeal with mushroom poisoning after mistakenly eating a poisonous variety, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and education.

Experts strongly advise the public to avoid consuming any mushrooms they are not completely certain about, as identifying poisonous varieties can be difficult even for professionals. The best approach, they caution, is to consult with experts and avoid taking risks when foraging.

Source: ANN

News On Japan
POPULAR NEWS

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

MEDIA CHANNELS
         

MORE Food NEWS

Pressed olives getting fed to Wagyu cows in Kagawa prefecture, a diet that enjoy only a few cows in Japan, resulting ultimately in a steak that offers - with a bit of fantasy - a very subtle and underlying flavor of juicy olives. (Aden Films)

Ramen, Japan, black ramen, broth, dashi, tonkotsu, miso, chashu, instant noodles... mmm, who's hungry? We love this food, and in this week's Great Big Story, we explore how ramen became a global phenomenon. (Great Big Story)

Join Shizuka expert guide Kaku-san for a unique tour combining tea and mixology. This in-depth tour explores some of the best tea-based food and drink (known as “chawari”) spots in Gakugeidaigaku and increasingly trendy chawari culture in Japan.

Japan’s beloved seafood is now in crisis. Compared to five years ago, catches of Pacific saury have dropped by 80%, Japanese flying squid by 55.5%, mackerel by 50%, and yellowtail by 13%.

Kura Sushi has unveiled its longest-ever conveyor belt, measuring approximately 135 meters, at its newly opened location inside the Expo venue.

Literally, 14 days out from Delivery! She runs the operation at the izakaya while her husband cooks, she has so much passion for her family restaurant! Is it a boy or a girl?! (Japanese Food Craftsman)

Strawberry is a seasonal fruit in Japan that becomes available during winter season, therefore this buffet is only available for a limited time throughout the year. (Jimmy Kim)

Welcome to Tokyo’s newest attraction: Grand Hammer! This mega complex in Shinbashi has it all, including dining options to cultural activities from across Japan and a relaxing floor with a sauna and massage chairs (both open 24/7), as well as stylish karaoke, a rooftop BBQ, geisha, and... a club? (Japan by Food)