Definition

Alfalfa is a legume primarily harvested as hay and used as animal feed. Its seeds can also be sprouted, making alfalfa sprouts, a common ingredient in fresh sandwiches and salads.

Health considerations

Alfalfa sprouts contain no saturated fat, cholesterol, or sodium. Alfalfa is very low in calories and is a good source of protein, vitamin A, niacin and calcium, and a very good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, pantothenic acid, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, copper and manganese.

Keep in mind

Genetically modified alfalfa plants have been available since 2005.

May be found in

Animal feed, salads (sprouts), sandwiches (sprouts)

References

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry
Self Nutrition Data

Alternative Spellings and Names

Medicago sativa, Lucerne

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