Is Blue Cheese Safe During Pregnancy

Reason

Blue cheese may be risky in pregnancy, especially if soft or unpasteurized. Some authorities say only cooked until steaming hot.

Safe Amount

No established safe limit — consult your provider.

Effects

Pregnancy

May increase risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm delivery, or newborn infection if contaminated.

Mother

Can cause listeriosis, which may be serious during pregnancy.

Baby

Can increase risk of listeriosis, which can be serious for the fetus or newborn.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester

Same guidance throughout pregnancy.

2nd Trimester

Same guidance throughout pregnancy.

3rd Trimester

Same guidance throughout pregnancy.

Conditions & Warnings

• Avoid blue cheese unless it is made with pasteurized milk and eaten cooked until steaming hot.
• Do not eat soft blue cheese made from unpasteurized milk.
• Some authorities advise avoiding pasteurized blue cheese unless cooked until steaming hot.

Alternatives

• Hard cheese made with pasteurized milk
• Pasteurized cottage cheese, mozzarella, or cheddar
• Blue cheese only if cooked until steaming hot, if your clinician says it is okay

References

• CDC
  https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/pregnant-women.html
• FDA
  https://www.fda.gov/food/people-risk-foodborne-illness/fact-or-fiction-food-safety-moms-be
• NHS
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/