Can expired dried mushrooms be eaten?
In general, it is not recommended to consume dried shiitake mushrooms after their expiration date. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Expired dried shiitake mushrooms may have been exposed to moisture, air, or bacteria during storage, leading to signs of spoilage such as mold or decay. Moreover, if stored for too long, the nutritional value of dried shiitake mushrooms gradually degrades and their texture deteriorates. Harmful substances such as mycotoxins may also develop, posing a threat to human health. Consuming them at this point may cause discomfort symptoms including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and could even lead to food poisoning, endangering health.
When purchasing dried shiitake mushrooms, carefully check the production date and shelf life on the packaging, and choose fresh, non-expired products. Additionally, regularly inspect the mushrooms for any signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, mold, or unusual odors. If spoilage is detected, discard them immediately to avoid accidental consumption and potential harm to health.