Edibility tests ...

[Adi007]

I've just been having a look through a few survival books and one thing that seems to come up again and again is the edibility test. If you're not familiar with this test, here it is ... http://www.survivaliq.com/survival/survival-use-of-plants_s1.htm#uet

However, I think that this test, especially in the way that it is portrayed in most books, is misleading and dangerous. This test isn't something you should do lightly. Basically, there are a few things out there that can kill you or make you seriously ill in very small doses. Don't use this test as a substitute to knowledge! This test is one designed to be used in times of extreme need (downed aircrew/military personnel behind enemy lines, etc) and not a way to find things that edible on a casual basis!

Also - don't try this one on fungi! It's doesn't work! Remember, you can physically eat pretty much every mushroom ... only some you only eat once!

This test is a test for when things become life-or-death, not a causal test to check if you've ID a plant correctly!

Just had to get that off my chest! :soapbox:

[Ed]

The edibility test is very unreliable. Its ony used when you re going to die of starvation..... if you get it wrong it could be fatal.

Ed

[Richard]

The edibility test is a very dangerous gamble and I would strongly advise against putting anything in your mouth that you have not identified beyond resonable doubt. There are no simple short-cuts to plant identification and like all skills it takes practice and repetition, but it is well-worth the effort, as not only can it occasionaly feed you, but also vastly improves your level of confidence and enjoyment in the outdoors.