Can Bidens pilosa be eaten raw? The nutritional facts, preparation methods, and safety concerns of Spanish Needles
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, *Bidens pilosa* was designated a food crop in Africa as early as 1975, indicating its long history of traditional use as a source of food. However, while the young leaves of *Bidens pilosa* can be consumed raw, there are important safety considerations, and most prefer to cook them to improve flavor and texture.