If you love sprouts and want to try growing your own, it's very easy to do and you can control how they are handled and how fresh they are when you use them. Although mung beans are the most commonly seen bean sprouts, you can sprout just about any type of bean and several other vegetable seeds. Some of the more delicate sprouts, like the alphalpha you often see at salad bars, are too flimsy to hold up to cooking.
Sprouts don't last long so think about sprouting in small batches and using them as soon as they are ready. If you need to store them for a day or two after they are ready, make sure you refrigerate them.
If you are truly confident about your sprouts, they are delicious raw, in salads and on sandwiches. You can also toss them into soups or side dishes. If you have concerns, use them in stir fries and cook them well. You'll still get some of the nutrient benefits, a lot of the taste and some peace of mind.
