Do shrooms go bad? Yes, magic mushrooms do go bad over time. How long they last depends on whether they are fresh or dried, how they are stored, and how much moisture they are exposed to. In the right conditions, dried magic mushrooms can last much longer than fresh ones, but neither lasts forever.
If you are wondering how long magic mushrooms last, the short answer is that fresh mushrooms usually spoil within days, while properly dried mushrooms can last months or even longer. Poor storage, heat, air, and humidity all speed up the process and increase the risk of mold or decay.
This guide explains how long mushrooms last, what causes magic mushrooms to go bad, and the clear signs that tell you when they are no longer safe to use. Knowing what to look for helps prevent accidental exposure to spoiled mushrooms and protects their quality.
How Long Do Magic Mushrooms Last? Storage and Shelf Life Explained
How long magic mushrooms last depends mainly on whether they are fresh or dried and how they are stored. Moisture, air, heat, and light are the biggest factors that cause mushrooms to go bad faster.
How Long Do Fresh Magic Mushrooms Last?
Fresh magic mushrooms have a very short shelf life. Because they contain a lot of water, they begin to break down quickly once harvested.
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At room temperature, fresh magic mushrooms usually last 1 to 3 days
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In the refrigerator, they may last up to 5 to 7 days if kept dry and stored in a paper bag
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Exposure to moisture or sealed plastic containers can cause them to spoil even faster
Fresh mushrooms often go bad before they show obvious signs, so storage time matters just as much as appearance.
How Long Do Dried Magic Mushrooms Last?
Dried magic mushrooms last much longer than fresh ones because most of the moisture has been removed.
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Properly dried mushrooms stored correctly can last 6 months to over a year
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Poor drying or exposure to humidity can shorten shelf life significantly
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Mushrooms that were not fully dried before storage are more likely to develop mold
Even dried mushrooms slowly lose quality over time, especially if storage conditions are not ideal.
Best Way to Store Magic Mushrooms
Proper storage is the key factor in how long magic mushrooms last.
For dried mushrooms:
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Store in an airtight container
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Keep in a cool, dark place
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Use a moisture absorber like silica gel if possible
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Avoid frequent opening, which introduces air and humidity
For fresh mushrooms:
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Store in a paper bag, not plastic
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Keep refrigerated
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Avoid washing until ready to use
Avoid heat, light, and moisture in all cases, as these speed up spoilage and increase the risk of mold growth.
What Shortens the Shelf Life of Magic Mushrooms?
Several factors can cause magic mushrooms to go bad faster:
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High humidity
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Poor airflow
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Warm storage temperatures
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Incomplete drying
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Repeated exposure to air
If any of these are present, mushrooms may spoil even if they have not been stored for very long.
1. Changes in Texture
Fresh or properly dried mushrooms should feel dry and firm. If your mushrooms feel slimy, soft, or unusually damp, that’s a clear sign they’ve gone bad. Sliminess often means bacterial growth, and these should not be consumed.
2. Strange or Unpleasant Odor
Healthy dried mushrooms usually have a mild, earthy smell. If your mushrooms smell sour, fishy, or otherwise off, it’s a warning sign. A strong or unpleasant odor usually indicates microbial growth.
3. Visible Mold or Spots
If you notice fuzzy patches, white or green mold, or dark spots that weren’t there before, the mushrooms are unsafe. Mold spreads quickly and can make them toxic even if only part of the mushroom looks affected.
4. Discoloration
Some blue bruising is normal in psilocybin mushrooms, but look out for blackening, yellowing, or other unusual colors. These changes suggest decay or contamination beyond the normal blue hue.
5. Excess Moisture or Poor Storage
If mushrooms weren’t stored correctly, kept in a damp bag or exposed to air, they can go bad much faster. Properly dried mushrooms stored in an airtight container, in a cool and dark place, last much longer. If moisture sneaks in, spoilage signs will follow.
Final Thoughts
Mushrooms that are slimy, smelly, moldy, or discolored should not be eaten. Proper storage prevents most of these problems, but once signs appear, it’s best to be cautious. When in doubt, throw them out.
References
- Tripsitter. Magic Mushrooms Expiration: How to Tell If They’ve Gone Bad.
- Snuggymom. How to Tell If Magic Mushrooms Have Gone Bad | Clear Signs Guide.