How do mushrooms count as ripe

The standard for fully ripe mushrooms is that the texture becomes soft, the color is uniform, and the juice seeps out. Immature mushrooms may contain harmful substances or cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Mushrooms undergo significant changes in appearance and texture during the heating process. Raw mushrooms usually have a hard texture, dry surface or earthy taste. As the temperature rises, the cell wall gradually breaks to release water. When the mushroom shows a uniform shrinkage state as a whole, the edge of the cap is slightly curled, the flesh changes from white to light brown or golden yellow, and can be easily penetrated by a light poke with chopsticks, it usually reaches a safe edible state. The maturity performance of different varieties varies slightly, for example, after the mushroom is fully ripe, the juice will clearly seep out, while the shiitake mushroom will emit a strong aroma. Some wild mushrooms contain natural hemolysins or hydrazine toxins, which require sufficient heating to destroy toxic components. If the center of the mushroom still appears hard and white, or if there is a raw and earthy taste when chewing, it indicates that the heating is not thorough. Specially thick mushroom stems or large mushrooms such as shiitake mushrooms require extended stir frying time or half cut processing. Eating undercooked mushrooms by mistake may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea, and pose a higher risk to immunocompromised individuals.

It is recommended to heat mushrooms over medium heat for at least 5 minutes when cooking, and for stewed dishes, it can be extended to 10 minutes to ensure safety. Pairing with onions, garlic, and other ingredients can help determine ripeness, and when the aroma of the ingredients is fully released, the mushrooms are usually already ripe. Children, elderly people, and those with weak immune systems should avoid consuming wild mushrooms. It is safer to choose common varieties in supermarkets in daily life. If any discomfort symptoms occur, seek medical attention in a timely manner.