Cheese and Pregnancy: What’s Safe to Eat and What to Avoid
07 Feb 2025
Can You Eat Cheese During Pregnancy? Here’s What’s Safe and What’s Not
Cheese is a delicious and nutritious part of many diets, but if you’re pregnant, you might be wondering: Is it safe to eat cheese? The good news is that many cheeses are completely safe during pregnancy, while others should be avoided due to the risk of listeria, a harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness. Let’s break down which cheeses are safe to eat, which should be avoided, and how to enjoy cheese safely while pregnant.Safe Cheeses to Eat During Pregnancy
The safest cheeses during pregnancy are pasteurized and hard cheeses, as they have little to no risk of listeria contamination. Hard Cheeses (Safe, Even If Unpasteurized)- Cheddar
- Parmesan
- Gouda
- Swiss
- Gruyère
- Edam
- Cream cheese
- Cottage cheese
- Mozzarella
- Ricotta
- Processed cheese (like American cheese)
- Halloumi
Cheeses to Avoid During Pregnancy
Some cheeses are more likely to contain listeria, which can cause serious pregnancy complications, including miscarriage, premature birth, or stillbirth. It’s best to avoid: Unpasteurized Soft Cheeses- Brie
- Camembert
- Feta
- Queso fresco
- Gorgonzola
- Roquefort
- Blue cheese
- Goat cheese (unless pasteurized)
How to Eat Cheese Safely During Pregnancy
Check the Label – Always ensure that cheese is made from pasteurized milk before eating.Cook It Thoroughly – If you’re craving a soft cheese that’s on the “avoid” list, cook it until bubbling hot to kill any bacteria.
Buy from Trusted Sources – Stick to well-known grocery stores and avoid homemade or farm-fresh cheeses unless you’re certain they’re pasteurized.
Is Cheese Good for You During Pregnancy?
Yes! Cheese is a great source of: Calcium – Supports your baby’s bone and teeth development.Protein – Essential for your baby’s growth.
Vitamin B12 – Helps with brain and nervous system development. As long as you choose safe options, cheese can be a delicious and healthy addition to your pregnancy diet.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to give up cheese during pregnancy—just make sure you’re choosing pasteurized and hard cheeses to keep you and your baby safe. When in doubt, check the label or heat it up!
Enjoy your favorite cheesy dishes worry-free!
