Final answer:
Saanvi's co-worker was likely concerned about the safety of consuming raw bean sprouts due to the risk of foodborne illness from bacteria, which is mitigated by cooking the sprouts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The inquiry from Saanvi's co-worker likely stems from a concern about the consumption of raw bean sprouts. Bean sprouts can harbor harmful bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can lead to foodborne illnesses if consumed raw. Cooking the sprouts would kill any potential bacteria, making them safe to eat. It's part of broader food safety practices to ensure that what we eat doesn't cause harm due to contamination. The topic of proper food preparation is significant for public health and food safety, particularly when it involves foods known to be risky if not handled or cooked properly.