Can I eat unpasteurized cheese while pregnant?
Unpasteurized cheeses should generally be avoided during pregnancy due to the risk of harmful bacteria.
Emily · mom-to-be
Grounded in ACOG, FDA & NHS guidance
Hello mama! It's important to be really careful with what you eat during pregnancy to keep both you and your little one safe. Health guidelines from many sources, including the Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic, strongly recommend avoiding unpasteurized cheeses. These cheeses, especially soft varieties like Brie, Camembert, feta, blue cheese, and queso fresco, can carry bacteria like Listeria, which can be very dangerous for pregnant women and your baby, potentially leading to serious complications.
The good news is that most hard cheeses (like cheddar or Parmesan) and soft cheeses clearly labeled as "pasteurized" are usually safe to enjoy! If an unpasteurized cheese is cooked until it's steaming hot, it may also be considered safe, but it's generally best to stick to pasteurized options.
Always, always check with your OB if you have any specific concerns about your diet.
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This is guidance, held gently — not medical advice.
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