Soaking Nuts Grains and Seeds in Cold Water Reduces Salmonella Risk Soaking nuts grains and seeds in cold water reduces the risk of Salmonella growth, according to a new study from Oregon State University. Raw sprouts have long been considered a risky food because they are often contaminated with pathogens that can cause serious illness, and there is no “kill” step before they are eaten. These foods aren’t exactly “sprouts,” which are a known food safety risk, since the root doesn’t emerge, but include grains, nuts, and seeds that are soaked so their hulls soften and the product swells.