Alfalfa
Alfalfa sprouts are nutrient-rich but have been repeatedly implicated in foodborne illness outbreaks (Salmonella, E. coli) due to seed contamination.
What it is
Forage legume (Medicago sativa); leaves, sprouts, and seeds are consumed as food/herb.
Whole-food vegetable (sprouts), herbal supplement, and animal feed.
Why it's flagged
- Foodborne illness risk in raw sprouts
- Canavanine content (high supplemental intakes)
What regulators actually say
"Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems should avoid eating raw or lightly cooked sprouts."
"Sprouts have been linked to many foodborne illness outbreaks — cooking sprouts thoroughly reduces the risk."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Whole food; subject to FSMA produce safety rules; sprout growers have specific requirements
European Union — EFSA
Permitted; sprout safety guidance applies
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