Is Mayonnaise Safe During Pregnancy

Reason

Commercial mayo with pasteurized eggs is safe. Homemade mayo with raw eggs should be avoided.

Safe Amount

No established safe limit — consult your provider.

Effects

Pregnancy

Unsafe preparation can increase infection risk during pregnancy.

Mother

May carry a higher risk of salmonella food poisoning if made with raw egg.

Baby

Raw egg can raise the risk of foodborne illness in pregnancy.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester

Safe if made with pasteurized eggs. Avoid homemade mayo made with raw or lightly cooked eggs.

2nd Trimester

Safe if made with pasteurized eggs. Avoid homemade mayo made with raw or lightly cooked eggs.

3rd Trimester

Safe if made with pasteurized eggs. Avoid homemade mayo made with raw or lightly cooked eggs.

Conditions & Warnings

• Use commercial mayo made with pasteurized eggs.
• Avoid homemade mayo unless the eggs are pasteurized or fully cooked.
• Avoid recipes with raw or lightly cooked eggs.

Alternatives

• Commercial mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs
• Store-bought egg-free mayo
• Yogurt-based spread

References

• FDA
  https://www.fda.gov/food/people-risk-foodborne-illness/dairy-and-eggs-food-safety-moms-be
• NHS
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/
• ACOG
  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/listeria-and-pregnancy