“Do not confuse our cultivated asparagus with so-called wild asparagus!”

A new health concern has been highlighted by Anses, the French National Health and Safety Agency, which is warning of poisoning cases following the ingestion of what is known as “wood asparagus,” also known as wild asparagus. Over 10 years, poison control centers have recorded 48 cases of poisoning linked to this type of consumption. Laboratory analysis of wild asparagus samples revealed the presence of “numerous calcium oxalate raphides, microscopic crystals known for their irritating effect,” according to Anses. “During the same meal, some consumers were affected and others were not, suggesting individual sensitivity.”

This perennial plant, known as Pyrenean Ornithogale, has very little in common with cultivated asparagus, apart from the soft green spike that crowns its flowering stem. This slight similarity can be a source of considerable confusion.

Photo credit – Dreamstime – Below: cultivated green asparagus, above: Pyrenean Ornithogale

“Since these cases of poisoning appeared in the press, several growers have told me of their concerns about the two species being confused. I have also witnessed this first-hand, as some people told me they no longer buy asparagus as a precaution. These two species have absolutely nothing to do with each other, and it is very important to communicate on the subject so that the sector does not suffer from this gross confusion. Some media have even published photos of cooked green asparagus to illustrate their articles about these cases of poisoning,” according to a professional of the sector.