Is it safe to eat white mushrooms that have a black ring inside?
Aug 30, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, whether white mushrooms with a black ring inside are edible needs to be determined based on specific circumstances. When selecting and storing white mushrooms, it is important to choose fresh specimens with plump caps, white gills, and no unpleasant odor, and to avoid purchasing mushrooms showing signs of darkening or softening. After purchase, mushrooms should be promptly refrigerated and not stored for extended periods. They should be thoroughly washed before consumption to ensure food safety.
Generally speaking, whether white mushrooms with a black ring inside can be eaten depends on the specific circumstances. The detailed analysis is as follows:
If the black portion inside the cap of the white mushroom is firm in texture, has no unpleasant odor or mucus, and the overall appearance is intact, it is usually caused by the natural shedding of spores during the mushroom's maturation process and is considered a normal physiological change. In such cases, the remaining white flesh can be safely cooked and eaten after removing the black portion, without causing harm to health.
If the black portion inside the mushroom is soft in texture, accompanied by a foul or moldy smell, or has mucus or mold spots on the surface, it indicates the mushroom has spoiled and bacteria or mold may have proliferated. Consuming such mushrooms may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, causing discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it may even lead to food poisoning, so they should not be consumed.
When selecting and storing white mushrooms, it is important to choose fresh ones with plump caps, white gills, and no unpleasant odor, avoiding mushrooms that show signs of darkening or softening. After purchase, mushrooms should be promptly refrigerated and not stored for extended periods. Thoroughly wash them before consumption to ensure food safety.
