Food Safety During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body has increased vulnerability to foodborne illnesses, making safe food handling extra important. Following these simple precautions can help protect both you and your baby throughout your pregnancy.

• Avoid high-risk foods like unpasteurized dairy, deli meats, refrigerated pâté, raw or undercooked eggs, sushi with raw fish, and undercooked meats to reduce the risk of Listeria, Salmonella, and other infections. To see a guide of riskier vs safer choices during pregnancy, click the button below to visit the CDC's Pregnancy Food Safety page:

CDC's Pregnancy Food Safety

• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to remove soil, bacteria, and pesticide residues before eating or cooking.

• Cook foods to safe internal temperatures and ensure reheated leftovers reach 165 degrees. Click below to download my printable guide for safe cooking temperatures during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Temp Guide.

Download • 94KB

• Prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards for raw meat and produce, and washing hands/utensils after handling raw foods.

• Store foods safely by keeping your refrigerator at 4°C/40°F or below, refrigerating leftovers promptly, and following use-by dates.