Many cheeses are safe to eat during pregnancy, provided they are made from pasteurized milk because pasteurization kills harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes[1][3][5]. However, certain types of cheese should be avoided or handled with caution, as they can pose a risk of listeriosis, a serious infection that can harm both mother and baby[2][4][6].
Cheeses that are generally considered safe during pregnancy include:
- Hard cheeses (e.g., cheddar, parmesan, gouda, Swiss, Edam, Gruyère), because their low moisture content reduces bacterial risk[1][3].
- Soft cheeses made with pasteurized milk, such as mozzarella, cottage cheese, cream cheese, ricotta, and some feta or goat cheese (be sure to check the label)[1][3].
- Processed cheeses, including American cheese, cheese spreads, and cheese slices, which are typically pasteurized[1].
Cheeses to avoid during pregnancy unless thoroughly cooked include:
- Any cheese made from unpasteurized (raw) milk, including some soft cheeses, as these may contain listeria[3][5].
- Soft cheeses with a rind (such as brie, camembert, and chevre) and blue-veined cheeses (such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton, and other blue cheese varieties) unless they are made from pasteurized milk and cooked until steaming hot[2][6][8].
- Always check the label for pasteurization and when in doubt, avoid cheeses that do not clearly state they are made from pasteurized milk[3][7].
If you want to eat cheeses typically considered high-risk (for example, soft blue cheese), cooking them thoroughly (until hot throughout) can kill harmful bacteria, making them safer for pregnant women[5]. Proper heating is typically defined as reaching at least 74°C (165°F) for 2 minutes[5].
Pregnant women should always consult their healthcare provider if unsure about the safety of any particular cheese or food item[6].
References
- [1] Is It Safe to Eat Cheese While Pregnant? – Complete Women’s Care
- [2] Is It Safe to Eat Blue Cheese During Pregnancy? – Healthline
- [3] What Cheeses Are Safe to Eat During Pregnancy? – Healthline
- [4] Can Pregnant Women Eat Blue Cheese? – Atamad
- [5] Eating cheese safely during pregnancy – Henri Willig
- [6] Can You Eat Blue Cheese When Pregnant? – Chuckling Cheese
- [7] Safe Cheeses to Eat While Pregnant – MFC Family
- [8] Can You Eat Blue Cheese While Pregnant? A Complete Guide – Myrtle & Maude
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