Bamboo shoots are harvested as soon as they come out of the ground. They contain a moderate amount of potassium, thiamin, and vitamin C. They are low in calories, which is good for those who need to watch their weight. They are conical in shape, with a hard brown skin that covers the creamy, tender and crunchy flesh. The skin must be peeled before cooking. They should always have been boiled before eating or adding to other dishes. Raw bamboo can be toxic.