Foods Pregnant Women Should Not Eat

Why Are Certain Foods Unsafe For Pregnant Women?

Pregnant women need to be especially careful with the food they eat. This is because certain foods can contain bacteria or toxins that can harm the baby. During pregnancy, the mother's immune system is weakened, which means she is more likely to become ill or get food poisoning.

Raw or Undercooked Animal Foods

Raw or undercooked meats, poultry, fish, shellfish and eggs should be avoided. They can contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning or even serious illness. Even if the food smells and looks fine, it could still contain harmful bacteria.

Meats

Raw or undercooked meats, including beef, pork and lamb, should be avoided. This includes any kind of ground meat, such as hamburger or mince. It is best to cook all meats until they reach an internal temperature of at least 75°C.

Poultry

Raw or undercooked poultry, such as chicken or turkey, should be avoided. It is best to cook all poultry until they reach an internal temperature of at least 82°C.

Fish and Shellfish

Raw or undercooked fish, such as sushi, and shellfish, such as oysters and mussels, should be avoided. They can contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can cause food poisoning. It is best to cook all fish until they reach an internal temperature of at least 70°C.

Eggs

Raw or undercooked eggs should be avoided. This includes foods that contain raw or partially-cooked eggs, such as cookie dough or homemade mayonnaise. It is best to cook eggs until the yolk and white are both firm.

Unpasteurized Dairy Products and Juices

Unpasteurized dairy products and juices should be avoided. They can contain harmful bacteria, such as listeria, which can cause food poisoning. This includes unpasteurized milk, cheese, yogurt, and juices. It is best to choose pasteurized dairy products and juices.

Processed Deli Meats and Hot Dogs

Processed deli meats and hot dogs should be avoided. They can contain listeria, which can cause food poisoning. It is best to choose cooked or pre-packaged meats that have been heated to at least 75°C.

Fish High in Mercury

Fish high in mercury, such as swordfish, tuna, king mackerel, and shark, should be avoided. Eating too much of these fish can cause mercury poisoning, which can harm your baby's brain and nervous system. It is best to choose fish low in mercury, such as salmon, cod, and tilapia.

Unwashed Fruits and Vegetables

Unwashed fruits and vegetables should be avoided. They can contain bacteria, such as listeria and salmonella, which can cause food poisoning. It is best to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.

Alcohol and Caffeine

Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects, while drinking too much caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage. It is best to limit caffeine intake to less than 200 milligrams per day.