Eating smoked mackerel during pregnancy is not recommended unless it is canned and has been heat-treated, as consumption of raw or refrigerated smoked fish, including mackerel, can carry the risk of listeriosis—a potentially dangerous bacterial infection for pregnant women[2][3][6][7].
Pregnant women should avoid the following:
- Refrigerated smoked mackerel or any smoked fish labeled as “nova style,” “lox,” “kippered,” “smoked,” or “jerky” unless it is included in a fully cooked dish, such as a casserole[2][5].
- Any raw, undercooked, or refrigerated smoked fish due to the risk of harmful bacteria and listeria[1][3][6][7].
- King mackerel specifically, as it is high in mercury and should be avoided by pregnant women regardless of preparation method[1][3][5].
If you wish to eat smoked mackerel while pregnant, only canned smoked mackerel (which has been processed to be shelf-stable) is considered safe, as the high heat destroys harmful bacteria and parasites[2].
Always follow these general guidelines for fish and seafood in pregnancy:
- Opt for fish varieties lower in mercury, such as Pacific mackerel, salmon, sardines, trout, and tilapia[3][5].
- Eat only fish that is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)[1][5][6].
- Avoid large, predatory, and high-mercury fish (e.g., king mackerel, shark, swordfish, tilefish)[1][3][5].
References
- [1] Is it safe to eat fish while pregnant? | HealthPartners Blog
- [2] Is Smoked Seafood Safe During Pregnancy? – babyMed
- [3] Enjoy seafood safely when pregnant – Safe Food & Water
- [5] Pregnancy and fish: What’s safe to eat? – Mayo Clinic
- [6] Fish & Pregnancy – Eat Midwest Fish
- [7] Smoked fish and risk of listeriosis in high risk groups … – GOV.UK
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