Like any organic material, magic mushrooms can deteriorate and develop bacteria if they are kept beyond their shelf life. Sliminess and dark spots are two indications that the mushrooms may not be safe to consume. Mold contamination can also occur if the mushrooms are exposed to excessive moisture or airborne soil particles that carry bacteria. This can be a significant health risk, so it's essential to properly store your mushrooms in a cool, dry place.
Another issue with shelf life is the loss of potency over time. Psilocybin, the psychoactive component in mushrooms, can degrade with time, resulting in a change in the overall effect. While this does not necessarily impact safety, it can significantly diminish the intended psychedelic experience.
It's important to note that there is no universal rule when it comes to the shelf life of psilocybin mushrooms. The length of time they can be stored varies depending on the variety of mushroom and the form it takes. Here are some general guidelines:
- Fresh mushrooms — short shelf-life of 3-10 days.
- Dried mushrooms — average shelf-life of 6-12 months.
- Microdose capsules — average shelf-life of 12-18 months.
- Mushroom chocolates — average shelf-life of 12-18 months (if refrigerated).
- Mushroom gummies — average shelf-life of 12-18 months (if refrigerated).