Certified Organic Broccoli Sprouts

Eat right and help protect the environment with certified organic broccoli sprouts.

Broccoli is a member of the family Brassicaceae, a group of vegetables that are high in antioxidant properties. Introduced to the U.S. during the 1800s, broccoli is an important vegetable, both for proper nutrition and as an agricultural crop.

All produce isn't created equal. Certified organic vegetables are held to a higher standard than mass produced vegetables. Monitored by the federal government for natural and eco-friendly practices, organic farms have to pass stringent regulations in order to achieve organic certification. Their crops, livestock and agricultural practices are also monitored periodically for compliance. Organically produced broccoli sprouts are grown:

• Without synthetic pesticides
• Without synthetic fertilizers
• Using practices that create less water and air pollution and have less of a negative impact on surrounding ecosystems.
• As part of a program designed to naturally replenish the soil.

When you see the certified organic label on the foods you buy, it's an indication that they are more wholesome. Because you have a better idea of what has . . . and hasn't, gone into their production, you'll have more control over the foods you bring into your home and feed to your family.

According to research conducted in association with Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, the antioxidant sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts may help the body produce protective enzymes that reduce inflammation and kill dangerous bacteria. Test subjects ate two and a half ounces of broccoli sprouts daily for two months in order to show beneficial effects.

Broccoli sprouts have up to 50 times more sulforaphane than mature broccoli, and developing a taste for them may protect you from some types of cancer, particularly stomach cancer, as well as conditions likes ulcers and gastritis. Sulforaphane is considered an anti-diabetic, anti-microbial and anti-cancer agent.

If you're having trouble locating certified organic broccoli sprouts, you may want to grow your own sprouts. Look for organic seeds that haven't been treated with chemicals agents. The packaging will be clearly marked "certified organic."

You can usually find broccoli seeds in either bulk seed packets or in kits. Once planted out in a quick sprouter, broccoli seeds take about six days to reach harvest size, and well-drained sprouts can be kept in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Sprouts are great in salads, sandwiches, soups and stir fry.

While you're adding sprouts in your diet, don't forget broccoli spears and florets. Despite some bad press, broccoli is a tasty vegetable that kids often do like. They have lots good stuff in them that will help both children and adults stay healthy too.

A cup of broccoli (about three ounces or 91 grams) contains over 100 percent of your daily recommended allowance of vitamins C and K. It's also high in vitamins A, B6, folate, riboflavin, potassium and manganese. Naturally low in calories, with about 31 for a one-cup serving, broccoli has two grams of dietary fiber and three grams of protein. It is also naturally low in cholesterol and fat.

• Pictures of Organically Grown Food
• Kids Organic Bubble Bath
• USDA Organic Goat's Milk Bar Soap
• What is Organic Farming
• What is Organic

• How to Make Organic Hair Products
• Organic Bamboo Fabric
• How to Make Organic House Cleaning Products
• 100% Organic Vitamins and Supplements
• Best Organic Shampoos