As a food safety and nutrition expert, I'd like to share some insights on which foods are generally not recommended to be consumed raw due to various reasons ranging from potential health risks to better nutrient absorption through cooking. Here's a detailed look at some of these foods:

1. Asparagus: While it's not harmful to eat asparagus raw, cooking it can enhance its nutritional value. The heat helps to break down the cell walls, making its cancer-fighting compounds, such as folic acid and vitamins A, C, and E, more bioavailable.

2. Mushrooms: Raw mushrooms are not only tough and chewy but they can also be difficult for the body to digest. Cooking mushrooms makes them more digestible and releases their rich, earthy flavors.

3. Tomatoes: Although tomatoes are often eaten raw, they are better for you cooked. Lycopene, the powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, is more readily absorbed by the body when the tomatoes are cooked with a bit of fat.

4. Potatoes: Raw potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound that can cause gastrointestinal issues. Cooking potatoes thoroughly eliminates this risk and makes them a safe and nutritious staple in many diets.

5. Brussels Sprouts: Similar to other cruciferous vegetables, Brussels sprouts contain compounds that can be goitrogenic, potentially interfering with thyroid function. Cooking helps to reduce these compounds, making them safer to eat.

6. Broccoli and Cauliflower: These vegetables are not only more palatable when cooked but also, in some cases, more nutritious. Cooking can increase the levels of certain antioxidants and reduce goitrogenic compounds.

7. Spinach: While spinach can be eaten raw, cooking it reduces its oxalic acid content, which can interfere with calcium absorption. Cooking also makes the nutrients in spinach more accessible to your body.

It's important to note that while these foods are generally better cooked, they are not outright dangerous when consumed raw. However, cooking can significantly improve their digestibility and nutritional value. Always practice safe food handling and preparation to ensure the healthiest and most enjoyable eating experience.

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Healthy Eating: 7 Veggies You Shouldn't Eat RawAsparagus. It won't harm you to consume asparagus raw, but cooking this thin, stalky vegetable first helps your body absorb more of its cancer-fighting nutrients. ... Mushrooms. ... Tomatoes. ... Potatoes. ... Brussels sprouts. ... Broccoli and Cauliflower. ... Spinach.read more >>