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Sprouts—including alfalfa, bean, and clover varieties—are grown in warm, humid conditions that are ideal not only for sprouting seeds but also for bacterial growth. Organisms like salmonella, listeria, and E. coli can thrive in this environment. Because contamination may occur inside the seed before it even sprouts, washing them does not eliminate the danger. Health authorities advise pregnant women and other high-risk individuals to avoid eating raw sprouts. Cooking them thoroughly can significantly lower the risk.
