AI-mediated risks and real-life challenges in mushroom foraging
Abstract
The rise of AI-based mushroom identification applications impacts foraging despite significant risks from relying solely on AI-generated advice. Popular AI-based mushroom identification tools were tested using 100+ photos of nearly 60 species, taken in real-world conditions. Even the best-performing tool failed in almost 15% of cases, with others performing worse. None of tested applications consistently provided a single, correct answer, demonstrating they cannot be trusted for definitive life-or-death identification decisions.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Smart Agriculture and AI
Silymarin and Mushroom Poisoning
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare and Education
Publication details
- Journal / source
- npj Science of Food
- Volume
- 10
- Issue
- 1
- Publication date
- 24 February 2026
- Language
- EN