Can I eat sprouts while pregnant?
Avoid raw sprouts (alfalfa, mung bean, clover, radish) — E. coli and salmonella risk. Cooked sprouts: safe.
Sources & citations
Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].
- Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic
- Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Frequently asked questions
Even supermarket sprouts?
Yes. The CDC advises all high-risk groups (pregnant women, immune-compromised, elderly, children) to skip raw sprouts entirely. Sprouts need warm humid conditions to grow — which is also ideal for bacteria.
Can I have pho if the sprouts are on the side?
Yes — just don't add the raw bean sprouts to the soup. Bean sprouts cooked in the broth at the restaurant are safe.
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More foods to check
This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.