AI in Japan advised edible mushrooms: elderly man hospitalized.

According to ТСН: An elderly man was hospitalized in the Japanese prefecture of Nara after consuming poisonous mushrooms that were incorrectly identified by artificial intelligence as edible.

In the town of Shimokitayama, the 70-year-old man was foraging for wild mushrooms and stumbled upon a species he initially believed to be shiitake or Pleurotus eryngii. The next day, deciding to show his find to experts at a botanical garden, he photographed the mushrooms and uploaded the image to a service that confirmed his suspicion.

"This is either shiitake or Pleurotus, they're edible," writes Japan Today.

Trusting the system's advice, the man grilled the mushrooms and ate them. Just half an hour later, he began to experience severe vomiting, and he was urgently hospitalized. Thankfully, the symptoms turned out to be temporary, and he fully recovered.

Experts from the Wakayama Prefectural Natural History Branch and the city health department determined that the man had collected tsukiyotake — a poisonous mushroom that is often confused with common edible varieties.

Experts emphasize that tsukiyotake can be recognized by the ring-like thickening on the stem. Dark spots may appear on the cap, though this does not always occur. Even after cooking, these mushrooms remain dangerous.

Risks of self-identifying mushrooms

Specialists warn that self-identifying wild mushrooms is risky — neither guides nor artificial intelligence will help. Findings should only be checked with experts.

This story sparked lively discussions online, with most commentators criticizing the actions of the victim:

• "AI didn't even accurately identify whether this was shiitake or Pleurotus. Why trust it?"

• "I wonder if he complained to AI after this?"

• "Artificial intelligence is only as useful as the person using it."

• "It's better to buy mushrooms in a store — it's safer."

• "If you don't know the mushroom — just don't eat it."

Remember, previously it was reported about a man who went to the forest and found rare black mushrooms. A Polish blogger boasted about his rare find.

This situation highlights the importance of caution when foraging for mushrooms. Despite the conveniences provided by modern technology, risks remain high. Remember that it's better to ask a professional than to regret a poor choice later.