Is Ricotta Safe in Pregnancy

Reason

Pasteurized ricotta is generally okay, but ricotta made with raw milk should be avoided because of Listeria risk.

Safe Amount

No established safe limit — consult your provider.

Effects

Pregnancy

Unsafe form can increase pregnancy infection risk.

Mother

Lower risk of listeriosis, which can make you very ill.

Baby

Lower risk of Listeria exposure from food.

Trimester Notes

1st Trimester

Same guidance: choose only pasteurized ricotta. Avoid raw-milk ricotta.

2nd Trimester

Same guidance: choose only pasteurized ricotta. Avoid raw-milk ricotta.

3rd Trimester

Same guidance: choose only pasteurized ricotta. Avoid raw-milk ricotta.

Conditions & Warnings

• Safe when made with pasteurized milk.
• Avoid ricotta made with raw/unpasteurized milk.
• Keep refrigerated and eat by the use-by date.

Alternatives

• Pasteurized ricotta
• Hard cheese made with pasteurized milk
• Cottage cheese made with pasteurized milk

References

• FDA
  https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/dangers-raw-milk-unpasteurized-milk-can-pose-serious-health-risk
• ACOG
  https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/listeria-and-pregnancy
• CDC
  https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/pregnant-women.html
• NHS
  https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/