There has been yet another recall of sprouts – this time bean sprouts – due to possible contamination by salmonella. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recently issued a recall for Fresh Sprout International brand Fresh Bean Sprouts and warns consumers not to consume the recalled product due to possible Salmonella contamination.
But the issue of potential contamination of various sprouts has been ongoing for decades. While alfalfa, broccoli, mung bean, mustard, onion and radish sprouts may all be tasty additions to offerings such as sandwiches and salads, they are simply not worth the risk.
Over the years, they have been implicated as the source of foodborne illnesses such as E. coli and salmonella. While I don’t have any recent figures, according to Health Canada, between the period of 1995 and 2011, more than eight outbreaks in five provinces in Canada resulted in more than 1000 cases of foodborne illness due to sprouts.
Health Canada suggests that an order to reduce your risk from eating sprouts, that children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems avoid them. Their information page gives advice on how to handle and prepare them if you’re not part of the at-risk group.
But the question is: why take a chance when the stats show that they could make you ill.
If you ask many experts, what’s the one food they will never eat the answer is commonly raw sprouts. Well they may offer a tasty crunch or be an attractive garnish for various dishes, they’re simply not worth the risk. While I used to grow my own alfalfa sprouts many years ago, I stopped eating them well over a decade ago. Growing sprouts at home does not offer any more protection against foodborne illness than buying commercial products.
That’s because the very process of growing sprouts is problematic. The seeds can be contaminated right along the entire process. Firstly they can come into contact with microbes that cause foodborne illness in the field through animal manure, irrigation water or through handling in the field. They can also continue to be contaminated through their transport – as can many seeds. But it’s how they are grown that separates them from other produce.
They’re grown in dark moist warm temperatures which are ideal conditions for these various microbes to flourish. While other plants are germinated in the same manner, once the plants start growing, they are no longer subjected to the same conditions and as a result, any microbes tend to die off.
That is why you should not confuse sprouts with microgreens. These greens are also packed with nutrition- even more so than sprouts – and are a terrific alternative to raw sprouts.
Foodborne illness can be very serious indeed and when you can decrease the chance of becoming a victim, it simply makes sense to do so.
The good news is that scientists are currently looking at methods to decontaminate the various seeds but in the meantime, my suggestion is to avoid eating raw sprouts. There are plenty of other ways to add crunch to your meals without taking a risk to your health.
FAQs
That's because the very process of growing sprouts is problematic. The seeds can be contaminated right along the entire process. Firstly they can come into contact with microbes that cause foodborne illness in the field through animal manure, irrigation water or through handling in the field.
What happens if you eat raw sprouts? ›
Symptoms of food poisoning on consuming raw sprouts are diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting. Most people get these symptoms within 12-72 hours after eating the sprouts. Symptoms are generally self-limiting or easily manageable and rarely cause any life-threatening complications.
What are the side effects of eating sprouts everyday? ›
Effects of consuming sprouts:
They are extremely hard to digest especially for people having vata dosha. Sprouting increases the concentration of protein, fibre and other nutrients and usually higher protein and fibre is considered hard to digest. 2. Regular consumption of sprouts can lead to diarrhea.
Who should avoid eating raw sprouts? ›
On FoodSafety.gov, the government gateway to food safety information, the advice reads: Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and persons with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw sprouts of any kind (including alfalfa, clover, radish, and mung bean sprouts).
How long can you eat sprouts? ›
Your home grown sprouts should easily keep for weeks (depending on the type of sprout) in the refrigerator.
What happens when you eat too many Brussels sprouts? ›
Like other cruciferous veggies, Brussels sprouts have a type of carbohydrate that your body can't easily break down. This can cause you to have belly pain, gas, and either diarrhea or constipation.
Are sprouts healthier if it's raw or cooked? ›
For those seeking maximum nutrient absorption and fibre benefits, raw sprouts might be the go-to choice. However, if you prioritise food safety and ease of digestion, boiled sprouts emerge as a safer option.
Can you have too many sprouts? ›
When it comes to enjoying sprouts as part of a healthy diet, moderation is key. While these tiny powerhouses are packed with nutrients, it's best not to go overboard. I usually recommend incorporating about a half to one cup of sprouts per day into your meals.
What are the best sprouts to eat raw? ›
Raw sprouts like alfalfa, clover, radish, onion and mung bean add color, texture and flavor to dishes. They can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches and salads or warm in stir-fries. Sprouts are also a nutrient-dense food. One cup of alfalfa sprouts has a mere 8 calories and is a good source of vitamin K.
Can we drink water after eating sprouts? ›
Can I drink water in which sprout are kept over night, immediately after eating sprouts. Use sprout only, water is avoidable. Was this answer helpful? Yes but in small quantity, or you can use this water in vegetable preparation.
It is best to eat sprouts anytime from breakfast to noon because of how these complex foods can provide you with a ton of energy that can fuel you for an entire day. Meanwhile, when eaten at night, sprouts might end up making you restless because you'd still be digesting the sprouts as you sleep.
What vegetables should you not eat raw? ›
These are the 6 vegetables that should never be consumed raw
- Potatoes. Uncooked potatoes not only taste bad but can also lead to digestive problems. ...
- Cruciferous Vegetables. ...
- Red Kidney Beans. ...
- Mushrooms. ...
- Eggplant. ...
- French Beans.
Nutrient-rich seeds for sprouting include alfalfa, broccoli, radish, and mung beans. These sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Is it okay to eat sprouts every day? ›
Though sprouts are a great food on their own they are not a complete wholesome food. They do lack in certain amino acids and nutrients. It is never recommended to consume one particular food item everyday and skip the others coz you are depriving your body of nutrients from other foods.
Are sprouts good for hair? ›
The vitamins and minerals found in sprouts, along with their hydrating properties, nourish the hair strands, making them smoother and shinier. Regular consumption of sprouts, combined with proper hair care practices, can help restore your hair's natural brilliance and leave you with glossy, head-turning locks.
Can I eat potatoes with sprouts? ›
Sprouted potatoes that are still firm, have relatively small sprouts, and don't show any wrinkles or shriveling are okay to eat, as long as you cut off the sprouted parts and soft spots. However, there's still a chance you could get sick. If your potato is sprouted and shriveled up, then it's too far gone. Toss, it.
Can raw sprouts cause a foodborne illness? ›
Sprouts are most commonly consumed raw or lightly cooked as they provide a crisp texture to sandwiches, salads and stir-fries. Unfortunately, the environment that the sprout needs for growth, combined with the fact that they are generally eaten raw or only lightly cooked, has caused many foodborne illness outbreaks.
Can we eat raw sprouts empty stomach? ›
Also helps to reduce cholesterol also weight loss and in many areas. Eating sprouts on an empty stomach is generally safe, but some people may experience digestive discomfort. Soaking or cooking sprouts can reduce potential risks associated with raw sprouts. Listen to your body and consider personal tolerance.
Can sprouts upset your stomach? ›
Cruciferous Vegetables
Vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower are high in sulfur and can cause bloating and gas. Try some of these vegetables to see if they are easier to digest: carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, zucchini, green beans, celery and squash.
Can we eat raw sprouts for weight loss? ›
Sprouts offer a range of advantages, including increased enzyme activity, enhanced nutrient absorption, and improved digestion. Additionally, their low-calorie content and high-fibre content make them an excellent addition to any weight loss plan.
