Is Caviar Safe to Eat While Pregnant?

Okay, so you probably realize that champagne is off the table during pregnancy, but what about its luxe partner-in-crime? If you’re lucky enough to be able to indulge in this delicacy, you may be wondering, is caviar safe during pregnancy?

Caviar is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless it’s pasteurized and stored properly. Traditional caviar is raw, salted fish roe, which can carry harmful bacteria and parasites such as Listeria monocytogenes if it’s unpasteurized. Eating contaminated caviar during pregnancy can increase the risk of foodborne illness, miscarriage, or complications. However, pasteurized caviar that has been refrigerated and handled safely may be eaten in moderation.

Is caviar safe to eat while pregnant?

Unpasteurized caviar is unsafe during pregnancy due to the risk of listeria and other pathogens. Some commercial caviar sold in jars or tins is pasteurized, making it safer to consume. Always check the label for pasteurized and ensure it has been kept refrigerated!

When dining out, it’s best to assume caviar is unpasteurized unless the restaurant can confirm otherwise.

Benefits of Eating Caviar During Pregnancy

Caviar does technically have some nutritional benefits, but the big caveat here is that you’re probably going to be consuming such a teeny portion that any of those perks are unlikely to be significant. So, keep that in mind as you consider these caviar benefits:

• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Supports fetal brain and eye development
• High in vitamin B12 and iron: Important for red blood cell production and preventing anemia (learn more about the importance of adequate iron for pregnant people).
• Protein source: Provides essential amino acids for tissue growth
• Vitamin D: Contributes to bone and immune health
  

Risks or Considerations

• Listeria risk: Unpasteurized caviar can harbor dangerous bacteria
  
• High sodium content: May contribute to swelling, bloating, or high blood pressure
  
• Cholesterol: Caviar is high in cholesterol, which should be kept in check in pregnancy
  
• Cost and sourcing: Specialty or imported caviar may be more likely to be unpasteurized
  

How to Safely Eat Caviar While Pregnant

• Only choose pasteurized caviar from reputable brands.
• Check expiration dates and confirm proper refrigeration.
• Eat in small amounts due to high salt and cholesterol.
• Pair with whole-grain crackers, eggs, or vegetables for a balanced snack.
• Avoid fresh, raw, or unpasteurized caviar, especially from restaurants or open markets.
  

When to Avoid Caviar

• If it is raw or unpasteurized
• If it has been stored improperly or past its expiration date
• If you have high blood pressure or are on a low-sodium diet
• If your provider recommends avoiding high-cholesterol foods
  

Bottom Line

Caviar is unsafe during pregnancy unless it is pasteurized and handled correctly. While it contains beneficial nutrients like omega-3s and vitamin B12, typically a single serving is too small to deliver a significant helping of those nutrients. Overall, the risk of foodborne illness from raw or unpasteurized caviar outweighs those potential benefits. To stay safe, choose pasteurized, refrigerated caviar in small amounts, or avoid it altogether until after pregnancy.

More on Healthy Eating During Pregnancy:

• Is Eating Fish During Pregnancy Safe?
• Healthy Foods to Satisfy Pregnancy Cravings
• Straight Talk to Avoid in Pregnancy
• Nutrients You Need While Pregnant

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REFERENCES

• Food and Drug Administration: Food Safety for Pregnant People
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Listeria Risk factors
• Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health: Omega‑3 Fatty Acids Consumer Fact Sheet
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Blood Volume During Pregnancy - Infant and Toddler Nutrition
• Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health: Vitamin D - Health Professional Fact Sheet
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:  Listeria Prevention
• The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Nutrition During Pregnancy

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.