Eating at Subway during pregnancy is possible, but you must take precautions. The main concern is the risk of foodborne illnesses, especially from deli meats, which may contain harmful bacteria like Listeria. Deli meats are considered unsafe for pregnant women unless they are heated until steaming hot (at least 165°F), which kills most bacteria[1][3][7]. Cold meats, such as turkey, ham, and roast beef, should be avoided unless toasted or thoroughly heated[3][6].
Safe sandwich options at Subway include:
- Toasted subs with thoroughly heated ingredients, such as Meatball Marina, Oven-Roasted Chicken, or Steak and Cheese (as long as the meat is steaming hot)[3][4].
- Tuna sandwiches (limit to no more than two servings per week due to mercury concerns)[4].
- Vegetarian options—cheese and vegetable subs can be safe, especially when the cheese is pasteurized and ingredients are fresh and well-washed[4][5].
Additional guidelines for safety include:
- Make sure all cheese varieties are made from pasteurized milk, which is the case for all Subway cheeses[3][5].
- Be cautious with salads and raw vegetables—ensure they are well-rinsed and fresh to lower the risk of contamination[4].
- Practice general food safety and hygiene, including washing hands and reheating leftovers until piping hot[4].
While an occasional toasted sub can be safe, eating homemade sandwiches where you control the ingredients and preparation is generally the least risky option[1].
Leave a Reply