We know some foods actually carry risks in pregnancy. The risks are very small, and even if you do eat some of these foods, perhaps without realizing, you are very unlikely to harm yourself or your baby in any way. However, it makes sense to avoid them when you can.
These foods have been found to have the potential for contamination with Listeria, because of the way they're made. Listeria is a bacterium (germ) that can lead to pre-term birth, miscarriage, and/or flu-like symptoms.
Foods to Avoid
- Unpasteurized milks
- Soft, ripened cheeses (varieties such as Brie, Camembert, and similar blue veined varieties)
- Ice-cream from soft whip machines (wrapped or block ice-cream is fine)
- Patés - all types
- Raw and undercooked eggs (thoroughly cook eggs until both the white and yolk are solid)
- Liver and liver products
- Mayonnaise (homemade)
- Shark, marlin and swordfish should be avoided and tuna restricted to two medium cans or one fresh steak per week. This follows concerns about mercury in these fish and also applies to women who are breastfeeding or intending to become pregnant.
If you have specific questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider.
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