Friday, July 25, 2025
spot_img
HomeBrand StudioTwo Seemingly Healthy Foods You Should Think Twice About, Says Nutrition Expert

Two Seemingly Healthy Foods You Should Think Twice About, Says Nutrition Expert

Trending or Risky? The Foods That Sparked a Health Debate

In today’s digital age, food advice is everywhere especially on social media. But not all that’s trending is truly safe. A recent statement from a food scientist stirred online debate by identifying two everyday foods they actively avoid: ground meat and raw sprouts.

To understand why these seemingly common foods made the list, we reached out to Dr Kiran Soni, a respected expert in nutrition and head of the Nutrition & Health Department at Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida. Her answers may just change the way you look at your plate.

Raw Sprouts: Small in Size, Big in Risk

Raw sprouts whether it’s moong, alfalfa, or clover are a popular choice for those seeking a clean and green diet. They’re light, full of fiber, and rich in micronutrients. But Dr Soni cautions against eating them uncooked.

Bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli can cling to seeds or spread during germination. Since sprouts are rarely cooked, these pathogens often go unchecked.

Risk is Higher for Certain Groups

Some people face greater danger from raw sprouts:

  • Expecting mothers
  • Infants and young children
  • The elderly
  • People with weakened immune systems

How to Enjoy Sprouts Safely

Dr Soni recommends either steaming or sautéing sprouts before eating. Not only does this kill bacteria, but it also preserves much of the nutritional value. If you’re looking for safer substitutes, consider:

  • Cooked pulses
  • Green vegetables like methi or palak
  • Lightly boiled seeds

Ground Meat: A Kitchen Staple That Needs Attention

Ground meat is used widely in dishes around the globe kebabs, burgers, meat sauces, and more. But Dr Soni reveals that its structure makes it more prone to contamination than whole cuts of meat.

Bacteria that would usually live on the surface of meat are mixed throughout once it’s ground, making thorough cooking essential to kill potential pathogens.

Keep These Safety Measures in Mind

Dr Soni offers several tips to ensure your ground meat meals are safe:

  • Cook until the inside reaches 71°C (160°F)
  • Store in the fridge and never let it sit out at room temperature
  • Prevent cross-contamination in the kitchen by using separate cutting boards
  • Clean your hands and surfaces after handling raw meat

Healthy Habits Start with Smart Food Choices

Food safety is often overlooked in daily cooking, but small changes can have a big impact. According to Dr Soni, avoiding illness isn’t about cutting out foods entirely it’s about being informed.

Being mindful about how food is stored, handled, and cooked can help protect not just you, but everyone you cook for.

Everyday Food Safety Tips

  • Wash all fresh produce thoroughly
  • Always cook meat and sprouts properly
  • Store perishables below 4°C
  • Avoid leaving cooked food out for long
  • Practice clean habits in the kitchen

Conclusion

Sprouts and ground meat may be part of your daily diet, but they can carry hidden dangers if not handled correctly. Thanks to insights from Dr Kiran Soni, we now know how to approach them with better awareness. Whether you choose to continue eating them or opt for safer alternatives, your health is in your hands and even small changes can make a meaningful difference.

RELATED ARTICLES

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

- Advertisment -
Google search engine

Most Popular

Recent Comments