Is It Safe To Eat Cheese During Pregnancy?

Manisha Pradhan

Author | 1053 Articles

Pregnancy comes with a list of dos and don’ts, especially when it comes to food. One common question that often arises is whether it’s safe to eat cheese during pregnancy.

Well, the good news is cheese can be a delicious and nutritious addition to your diet during pregnancy. However, there are certain types of cheese to avoid during pregnancy.

What Are The Benefits Of Cheese During Pregnancy?

Cheese as we all know, is a dairy product made from milk and is available in a wide variety of flavours, textures, and types. It’s a fantastic source of calcium, protein, and other essential nutrients that are vital for both mum and baby.

But not all cheeses are created equal, and certain varieties need to be approached with caution during pregnancy.

Cheese During Pregnancy: Types That Are Safe To Eat During Pregnancy

First, let’s talk about the cheeses you can enjoy without any worries

Hard cheese

Hard cheeses made through a process that involves heating and pressing, which eliminates any potentially harmful bacteria are safe cheeses to eat during pregnancy, these include:

Cheddar cheese
Gruyere
Swiss cheese
Parmesan cheese

Soft cheese

Some soft cheeses made with pasteurised milk are safe to eat during pregnancy, such as:

Cream cheese
Cottage cheese
Ricotta
Halloumi
Feta cheese
Paneer

Cheese During Pregnancy: Types To Avoid During Pregnancy

Semi-soft cheeses with a mouldy rind

Now, onto the cheeses that require a little caution. Soft and semi-soft cheeses with a mouldy rind can carry a bacteria called Listeria. This bacterium poses a risk to both mom and baby, as it may cause miscarriage, preterm labour, or other complications. These cheeses include:

Brie
Camembert
Blue-veined cheeses (like English Stilton and French Roquefort.)

However, don’t despair! You can still savour these cheesy delights by ensuring they are thoroughly cooked until they are piping hot. Cooking destroys any harmful bacteria, making them safe to eat.

Unpasteurised cheese

Whether it’s hard, soft, or even blue cheese, the most important factor to consider during pregnancy is whether the cheese is made from pasteurised milk. Pasteurisation is a process that kills potentially harmful bacteria, making the cheese safe to consume.

Always check the label to ensure that the cheese you’re buying is made from pasteurised milk. If you’re dining out or unsure about the cheese’s origin, it’s best to avoid it or ask your server for information.

Cheese, Glorious Cheese!: Now that we’ve covered the dos and don’ts, let’s focus on the delightful part – enjoying cheese during pregnancy! Cheese can add flavour, creaminess, and excitement to your meals.

Sprinkle some grated cheese on your pasta, melt it in a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, or add a dollop of cream cheese to your bagel. The options are endless! Just remember to practice moderation, as cheese can be high in fat and calories.

If you have been wondering if it is safe to eat cheese during pregnancy, remember pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to give up on your love for cheese as long as you check the label, choose pasteurised options, and practice moderation.

So go ahead, indulge in some cheesy goodness and make your pregnancy a truly delicious experience! Remember to consult your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet during pregnancy. Enjoy your cheesy journey and embrace the delightful flavours that await you!

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