Madam, - Having recently attended one of Bill O'Dea's mushroom hunts, I noted article on foraging for food (Magazine, November 22nd) with interest.
However, I am concerned at the mention of "edible amanitas". Although the genus Amanita does contain some edible mushrooms, it also contains the most toxic (Amanita phalloides and Amanita virosa). In fact, most fatal mushroom poisonings are caused by these species.
The increasing popularity of natural foods has lead to an increased incidence of mushroom poisoning, with many deaths occurring each year in mainland Europe. Fortunately, there have been few severe cases in Ireland.
Identifying mushrooms is not easy, even with a guidebook, and should never be attempted by the inexperienced. As for the Amanita species, I would suggest avoiding them completely. - Yours, etc,