Keeping your sprouts safe

Although we know cooked sprouts pose no health risk, we also know that no one wants their sprouts cooked before adding it to a salad or sandwich.

Sprouted seeds such alfalfa, clover and broccoli have become increasingly popular over the last few years given their touted health benefits and tasty texture.

Despite control methods, unfortunately, the conditions under which sprouts are grown – a warm, moist environment – are also ideal for bacterial growth.

So how do you make sure your sprouts are safe?

• Buy only refrigerated sprouts, avoid dark or slimy sprouts;
• Refrigerate sprouts at home;
• Consume sprouts before the use by date;
• Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw sprouts; and
• Wash sprouts before use; and
• Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems should avoid raw sprouts altogether.