When it comes to taking shrooms, it’s always smart to start with a lower dose especially if you are a beginner. You can always store your shrooms, there is no need to force yourself into consuming more just because you are worried about them going bad. How long can you store your shrooms and can magic mushrooms go bad?
Can Magic Mushrooms Go Bad?
In short, the answer is yes, as like with any other food, mushrooms will eventually spoil. There are two primary ways in which mushrooms can deteriorate. The first is the loss of potency, as active chemicals in mushrooms will eventually break down over time, and the duration of their storage life will depend on the method of storage. If properly stored, mushrooms could last for years to come. However, once they lose their potency, dosing these mushrooms properly will be challenging.
The second way in which mushrooms can spoil is through the development of bacteria or mold. If consumed, these pathogens could cause an upset stomach and even respiratory issues.
When Do Magic Mushrooms Go Bad?
The duration it takes for mushrooms to spoil depends on their type. Fresh mushrooms typically remain fresh for three to four days, and after that, one should start checking for spoilage signs. Quite the contrary, dried mushrooms can last for more than a year, if stored correctly. with an average lifespan of approximately 18 months.
If mushrooms are in powder or capsule form, their shelf life is typically six to twelve months. Any method of mushroom processing that results in the mushrooms being turned into powder or fine pieces will speed up the degradation process due to oxidization.
On the other hand, mushroom chocolates can last for years when stored in the freezer. It’s speculated that refrigerating or freezing mushroom chocolates can cause the mushrooms to lose their potency. For the best experience, she recommends consuming mushroom chocolates immediately after obtaining them.
When Do Magic Mushrooms Lose Their Potency?
Typically, fresh magic mushrooms retain their psilocybin potency for up to a week. Although, always handle them with care and store them correctly to maximize their shelf life. If stored appropriately, healthy freshly-picked mushrooms can maintain optimum potency for up to ten days, regardless of the strain, whether it’s Penis Envy or Golden Teachers.
If you plan to consume the mushrooms within the ten-day window, fresh fungi might be the best choice for your psychedelic experience. This is because natural, raw mushrooms contain the highest concentration of active compounds compared to dried mushrooms, which are less potent. However, dried mushrooms and mushroom edibles have the benefit of lasting much longer.
The way they’re stored is detrimental, dried mushrooms stay potent for up to six months, and in some cases, even up to a year if stored correctly. However, for the most extended potency, it’s best to choose mushroom edibles like mushroom chocolates or mushroom gummies. The chocolate or gelatine in these ingestible products shields the mushrooms from environmental degradation caused by heat, oxygen, and light. Under proper conditions, chocolates can maintain maximum potency for up to a year.
The Best Way To Store Magic Mushrooms
To maintain potency, it’s crucial to protect your mushrooms from oxygen, UV light, heat, and moisture. If mushrooms are protected from all the environmental effects, psilocybin concentrations can be preserved for a longer period of time.
Dried Mushrooms
An airtight container is definitely the best way to store your mushrooms, this could be a mason jar or a simple ziplock bag. A few packets of silica gel should also be placed in the container.
If kept in a dark, cool, and dry magic mushrooms will not become spoiled at least for a year. It’s recommended to use the jar and cupboard method rather than storing them in the freezer. Another option is to grind the dried shrooms and use them in recipes for long-lasting mushroom edibles.
Fresh Mushrooms
If you want your mushrooms to stay fresh longer, always maintain a clean and sanitized environment, for them to be stored in. Begin by cleaning your hands thoroughly with sanitizing soap or by wearing disposable gloves.
Using a small brush, remove any dirt from the mushrooms, and be gentle you don’t want them to break. Place the cleaned mushrooms on a paper towel inside a paper bag, and firmly roll the bag closed to prevent decay.
Don’t forget to put your silica packet inside the bag as well. Store the bag of mushrooms in the refrigerator and consume within ten days for optimal freshness. Before you decide to take your mushrooms take a good look. If there are any signs of mold on the fruit body, throw it away, it’s spoiled.
Edibles
Mushrooms in form of edibles such as chocolates and gummies are slowly gaining popularity.
Gummies should be kept in their own package if it’s a ziplock bag or transfer to an airtight container and keep in the fridge.
For mushroom chocolates, it’s the same thing. Use an airtight container for storage and throw it in the fridge or refrigerator. For optimal results, line the container with wax baking paper to prevent the chocolates from sticking together. Keeping the chocolate cold is the most effective method for slowing decay and preventing melting.
How To Tell If Magic Mushrooms Went Bad
It is essential to know how to spot contamination before consuming mushrooms, regardless of their form or storage method. Identifying spoiled shrooms is crucial in preventing health problems such as respiratory infections, allergic reactions, nausea, and bad trips.
Visible Signs of Mold
If you notice mold spores forming on your magic mushrooms, they are no longer safe to consume. Mold is usually presented as a rough and velvety spot with a fuzzy appearance Mold can be dangerous and is not worth the risk.
An Unusual Odor
Mushrooms have a distinctive earthy and musky scent. However, if your shrooms emit a pungent, sweet, or funky odor, they may have a bacterial or yeast infection. Any unusual odor should prompt you to discard the entire batch, as bacterial infections can be life-threatening.
Soft Spots on the Surface
The development of soft spots on the surface of your shrooms is another indication that they have gone bad. Soft spots are likely caused by bacterial colonies or mold spores. Dried mushrooms that have become mushy due to bacteria or mold cannot be salvaged. They should be thrown away immediately.
Discoloration
If you notice a change in color in your magic mushrooms, you should discard them immediately. Discoloration can be caused by bacteria, mold, and yeast. The exception is blue discoloration, which is perfectly normal. The blue-ing reaction is one of the critical methods used to determine if a sample of mushrooms contains psilocybin.
The Bottom Line
All mushrooms will eventually spoil, but with proper storage, you can prolong their shelf life. However, it is crucial to inspect, smell, and touch the mushrooms before consuming them. If there are any signs that the mushrooms are spoiled throw them away. These signs could be strange odors, spots, discoloration, and fuzzy growth. Eating contaminated mushrooms can lead to health risks that should be avoided at all costs.
