Honest, I have no idea what spouts really taste like, so I am going to go with the texture because I do not care to eat mushrooms for the same reason, and I love the flavor of mushrooms but can not get past how they feel when you bite into them.
I am also just now realizing how growing up outside most of my waking hours as a kid and hating bugs makes all my food references about bugs or outdoor things LOLL
The things you learn about yourself when you get older are interesting, to say the least!
and no, to your last question. LOLL, at least I don't think I did. but back then you ate when you were given. Mom worked an 8 hour day and drove an hour each way to work so.....
HUGS!