Infections associated with eating seed sprouts: an international concern.
1999
Infections from Eating Seed Sprouts
publication
Author Information
Author(s): Taormina P J, Beuchat L R, Slutsker L
Primary Institution: Center for Food Safety and Quality Enhancement, University of Georgia
Hypothesis
Are raw seed sprouts a significant source of foodborne infections?
Conclusion
Raw seed sprouts can harbor dangerous pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, posing a risk of foodborne illness.
Supporting Evidence
- Recent outbreaks of Salmonella and E. coli O157:H7 infections have been linked to raw seed sprouts.
- Pathogens can exceed 10 million per gram of sprouts without affecting their appearance.
- Disinfecting seeds and sprouts does not eliminate the pathogens.
- A comprehensive approach can help reduce the risk of sprout-associated disease.
- High-risk individuals are advised not to eat raw sprouts.
Takeaway
Eating raw seed sprouts can make you sick because they can have germs that cause infections. It's better to avoid them, especially if you're older or have a weak immune system.
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website