Alfalfa sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts

Main ingredients	Alfalfa seeds
Cookbook: Alfalfa sprouts   Media: Alfalfa sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts are the edible sprouted seeds of the alfalfa plant (Medicago sativa). They are commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a garnish. Alfalfa sprouts are known for their mild flavor and crunchy texture.

Nutritional Value

Alfalfa sprouts are low in calories and contain a variety of essential nutrients. They are a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin A. Additionally, they provide small amounts of protein, fiber, and minerals such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Health Benefits

Alfalfa sprouts are often considered a health food due to their nutrient density. They are believed to have several health benefits, including:

• Supporting bone health due to their high vitamin K content.
• Boosting the immune system with their vitamin C content.
• Providing antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.

Cultivation

Alfalfa sprouts are typically grown indoors in a controlled environment. The process involves soaking alfalfa seeds in water for several hours, then rinsing and draining them multiple times a day until they sprout. The sprouts are usually ready to eat within 3-5 days.

Safety Concerns

There have been instances of foodborne illness outbreaks associated with alfalfa sprouts, primarily due to contamination with bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. It is important to handle and store alfalfa sprouts properly to minimize the risk of contamination.

Related Pages

• Sprouting
• Microgreens
• Health food
• Salad
• Sandwich

See Also

• List of edible seeds
• List of salads
• List of sandwiches