Can You Eat Shellfish While Pregnant?

Shellfish lovers, rejoice! Can you eat shellfish while pregnant? The short answer is yes, but with some critical considerations to ensure both your safety and that of your baby.

Understanding Seafood Safety During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of numerous dietary adjustments, and seafood, including shellfish, often raises questions regarding its safety. While you can eat shellfish while pregnant, the key is to ensure it’s properly cooked. Thorough cooking reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses, which can otherwise harm you and your developing baby.

Say No to Raw Shellfish

Raw shellfish, such as oysters, are a no-go during pregnancy. These can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or viruses, which may lead to food poisoning. The consequences could be severe, increasing the risk of premature delivery or infections in your baby. So, it’s essential to avoid raw shellfish and related products in sushi or sashimi.

Enjoying Cooked Shellfish Safely

Cooked shellfish like prawns, lobster, mussels, and clams are generally safe to eat when prepared correctly. The rule of thumb? Cook them until their flesh becomes firm, opaque, and their shells open fully. Discard any shellfish whose shells remain closed after cooking. Cold pre-cooked shellfish, such as prawns and lobster, are also safe provided they’ve been thoroughly cooked beforehand.

Portion Guidelines and Consumption Tips

While enjoying shellfish, it’s advisable to follow portion guidelines and avoid excessive consumption. Some research suggests that consuming shellfish more than twice a week may increase the risk of having a small-for-gestational-age (SGA) baby. Conversely, regularly eating fish (as opposed to shellfish) is associated with extended gestation length.

Best Practices for Safe Shellfish Consumption:

• Only eat thoroughly cooked shellfish.
• Avoid raw shellfish, including in sushi or sashimi.
• Abide by recommended portion sizes—typically 2-3 servings per week of low-mercury seafood.
• Pay attention to local health advisories and guidance on shellfish safety.
• Ensure seafood is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C); the flesh should be milky white and shells should open fully during cooking.

Choosing Safe Shellfish

When purchasing shellfish, opt for reliable sources and steer clear of items that might be cross-contaminated. If you’re uncertain about the safety or origin of the shellfish, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before indulging.

Pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, and a mindful approach to eating shellfish can keep you and your baby safe while still enjoying those delicious seafood flavors.