What Are Sprouts?
Sprouts are the first growth that is produced from a germinated seed. These tiny plant shoots have high levels of key vitamins and minerals. Plus they add a crisp texture to sandwiches, salads, and stir-fries. Unlike most vegetables that often take weeks or months to grow, sprouts mature in 3 to 5 days and don’t need soil, fertilizer, or sunshine to grow. They do, however, need plenty of your attention if you’re going to grow them safely from your home—make sure you follow the cleaning, rinsing, and draining steps outlined below.
How to Eat Sprouts Safely
Sprouts are a known source of foodborne illness due to the warm, humid environment that they’re grown in and the fact that they’re often eaten raw or lightly cooked. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Eating raw or lightly cooked sprouts, such as alfalfa, bean, or another sprout, may lead to food poisoning from Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria. Thoroughly cooking sprouts kills the harmful germs and reduces the chance of food poisoning.” The CDC recommends that “Children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts of any kind (including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean sprouts).” So, again: If you want to play it safe, thoroughly cook your sprouts before you eat them to reduce your chances of getting food poisoning.
Best Seeds for Sprouting
It’s important to only use seeds that are specifically labeled and packaged for sprouting. They have been tested for a high germination rate and are held to higher safety standards than seeds sold for gardening. According to K-State Research and Extension, “In most outbreaks associated with sprouts, the seeds are typically the source of the bacterial contamination.” Two major United States seed suppliers are International Specialty Supply and Caudill Sprouting. Some of the best types of seeds for sprouts include alfalfa, broccoli, radish, red clover, mung bean, soybean, lentil, wheatgrass, and whole grains. If you’re just getting started on sprouting, try experimenting with just one sprout variety at time.
