Raw vs. Cooked: What is the right way to eat sprouts?

Raw sprouts and food poisoning

The raw sprouts are mostly linked with food poisoning due to the presence of harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella. The beans and seeds mostly germinated in warm and humid conditions, is perfect for the growth of such bacteria. Most people experience symptoms of food poisoning like diarrhoea, stomach cramps and vomiting 12–72 hours after eating the sprouts. These symptoms are rarely fatal but can lead to severe health risk in case of children, pregnant women, the elderly and people with compromised immunity.

The digestion issues

As per experts, raw sprouts are even difficult to digest as compared to the cooked ones. Your body might not be able to absorb all the nutrients of the seeds and beans in the raw form. Cooking the sprouts slightly makes the nutrient more accessible to the body.

The right way to eat sprouts

Though the incidences of food poisoning after having raw sprouts have been reported numerous times in the past, not everyone experiences it. Many people consume raw sprouts daily and yet have never faced any trouble. However, for your safety, put some oil in the pan and saute the sprouts for a while to kill the bacteria or can either boil in salt water for 5-10 minutes. Cooking them is even better for your digestive system and the absorption of nutrients.

The bottom line

If you have a healthy immune system and have never experienced any problems by consuming raw sprouts then you should continue with it. If you’re worried or have a compromised immune system, cook your sprouts slightly before adding them in your salad or rice.