Which Vegetables Should You Avoid This Monsoon? What Should You Have Instead?

Monsoon Vegetable Guide: The monsoon season brings relief from the scorching summer heat, also ushering in a host of health challenges, particularly when it comes to food safety. As much as people love the lush greenery and wholesome meals, the increased humidity and damp conditions during the rainy season become a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi and other pathogens, leading to food contamination and infections. Although vegetables are a cornerstone of a healthy diet, not all of them are safe and advisable during the monsoons. Some of the veggies, when not handled or cooked properly, can increase the risk of infection, stomach issues and food poisoning.

But how can you meet the nutritional needs when compromising on certain vegetables? Well, with smart swaps and replacing the vegetables to avoid during the monsoon, including equally nourishing alternatives that support immunity and digestion. Monsoon is all about eating wisely to keep the body strong and resilient. Here are the vegetables to avoid during the rainy season and the best vegetables to eat during the monsoon.

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Vegetables To Avoid During Monsoon

Green Leafy Veggies

Leafy greens like fenugreek and spinach are considered nutritional powerhouses in dry seasons. During the rains, these green leafy veggies are prone to carrying risks of infection. Despite thorough washing, they can still retain microbes due to their texture and high water content. The chances of bacterial growth are high, which can cause food poisoning.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms are loved for their umami flavour and texture, but in the monsoon, they can become a health issue if not handled properly. Due to their sponge-like quality, mushrooms soak up moisture from the environment, which also increases the risk of bacterial growth.

Potatoes

Although potatoes look harmless, when they sprout due to excess moisture, they are not recommended for consumption. Sprouted potatoes contain a compound called solanine, which is toxic and leads to symptoms like headache, nausea and more.

Vegetables That Are Unsafe To Consume During Rainy Season (Image Credits: Canva)

Cruciferous Veggies

Cruciferous veggies like cabbage and cauliflower are considered another group of veggies that come under the radar of bacterial growth during monsoon. The tightly packed florets and layers are loaded with moisture, water, dirt and microorganisms even after washing and the risk increases during this time of year.

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Safe Vegetables To Eat In Monsoon

Not all veggies are safe to be consumed during the monsoon season. There are plenty of safer options that have low moisture content and are less prone to bacterial growth and contamination. Here are some of them.

Bottle gourd

Corn

Ridge gourd

Cluster beans

Tindora

These veggies are easy to clean and are safe to consume during the rainy season, providing the essential nutrients to keep the body and immune system strong.