What is generally recommended for young children, the elderly, or pregnant individuals when consuming bean sprouts?
Answer
Cook sprouts thoroughly until steaming hot.
There is an inherent food safety risk associated with consuming bean sprouts raw because the warm, moist environments required for their growth are also ideal for the proliferation of harmful bacteria. To mitigate this risk, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant individuals, the elderly, or young children who have compromised immune systems, it is strongly recommended that sprouts be cooked until they are steaming hot. While cooking sacrifices some heat-sensitive vitamins like Vitamin C, this simple step significantly lowers the risk profile by killing potential pathogens, ensuring the nutritional rewards are gained safely.

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