Nutritional Value Of Mung Bean Sprouts

Mung bean sprouts, which are germinated mung bean seeds, have a delicate, crisp texture and a sweet flavor. Mung bean sprouts are low in calories, high in protein and provide vitamins and minerals. Sprouts may be eaten raw or in a stir fry and can be purchased at most grocery stores.

Calories

A 1 cup serving of mung bean sprouts has 31 calories, according to the USDA National Nutrient Database.

Macronutrients

Though mung bean sprouts are mostly made up of water, they do provide some protein, carbohydrates and fiber. A 1 cup serving of raw mung beans provides 3.16 g of protein, 6.18 g of total carbohydrate and 1.9 g of dietary fiber. Adults should consume between 46 and 56 g of protein daily and 25 to 35 g of dietary fiber, according to the National Academies' Institute of Medicine.

Vitamins

Mung bean sprouts provide folate, a water-soluble B vitamin essential for DNA and red blood cell synthesis. A 1 cup serving of raw mung bean sprouts provides 63 mcg of folate. Adults need 400 mcg of folate daily, according to the National Academies' Institute of Medicine. Mung bean sprouts also provide some vitamin C, riboflavin and vitamin B5.

Minerals

Mung bean sprouts are a source of manganese, a mineral essential for energy metabolism and bone formation. One cup of raw bean sprouts has 0.196 mg of manganese. Men should consume 2.3 mg of manganese daily and women 1.8 mg, as recommended by the National Academies' Institute of Medicine. Mung bean sprouts also have small amounts of magnesium, calcium, potassium and phosphorus.

Considerations

You can grow your own sprouts at home or purchase them at the grocery store. When purchasing mung bean sprouts, look for sprouts that are firm and crisp and avoid sprouts that are wilted, slimy or musty smelling. Mung bean sprouts should be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to three days.