Cheesy Treats Cravings: Is Mozzarella Cheese Safe During Pregnancy?

Many women love cheese. It can be eaten as is, or in a sandwich. And who can’t resist the melting, oozing cheese on pizza and pasta dishes? 

But when a woman becomes pregnant, she must make some adjustments or changes to her diet. There are foods to avoid during pregnancy, especially those that may cause harm not only to her but to her baby as well. 

Cheese is one of the best sources of calcium and calcium is essential to pregnant women and the babies on their womb too. Sadly, there are certain types of cheese that can pose a risk of bacterial illnesses that can be harmful during pregnancy. There are many varieties of cheese and one of them is Mozzarella cheese. If it happens to be your favorite, can you still consume it? Is mozzarella cheese safe during pregnancy?

Cheese and listeria

One of the common reasons why pregnant women are advised to shun away from cheese and cheese products is because of listeria. Listeria monocytogenes is a type of bacteria that may be present in water and soil. It can be found in uncooked meat and vegetables, unpasteurized milk and unpasteurized milk products and processed food. Listeria may not affect healthy adults but it can cause complications among pregnant women that can lead to miscarriage, premature birth, infection on newborns or worst, death. Common symptoms of listeria are headaches, muscle aches, nausea, and fever. In the worst cases, it can cause a stiff neck and convulsions. Contact your doctor once these symptoms are present for early medical intervention to avoid greater risk.

Good thing is that the bacteria can easily be killed by pasteurization and cooking. But do take note that there is still a possibility of contamination in ready to eat foods like deli and hotdogs because it can occur after cooking and pre-packaging. 

Can I eat mozzarella cheese while pregnant?

Are you craving for cheese during pregnancy?  Mozzarella cheese and other cheese for that matter can still be safe among pregnant women provided that they are pasteurized. 

Mozzarella cheese is one of the most common pasteurized cheese on the list. But to be sure, check on the label before purchasing or using it to avoid any dangers.

Read also: What Cheeses Should Be Eaten During Pregnancy And Which To Avoid

Benefits

Since mozzarella cheese is a dairy food, it is a safe and healthy source of calcium. During pregnancy, calcium is essential to a baby’s developing teeth and bones. In addition, it is also a good source of protein which is important to fetal muscles, cells, and overall growth and development. And as always, consume it in moderation. You can opt for low-fat or part-skim mozzarella cheese variety for a lesser calorie and saturated fat intake.

How to enjoy mozzarella cheese

Mozzarella cheese can either be sliced, cubed or shredded. It is also versatile and you can add it to your favorite cheese dishes making a creamy and tasty blend of flavors. Pregnant cheese lovers can eat it as is as mozzarella sticks. You can also shred and baked it for a yummy cheese crisp. Topped your favorite pizza and pasta dishes with shredded mozzarella cheese or melt it into the pasta sauce. Sliced mozzarella can be used to make perfect sandwiches for breakfast or snacks. When cubed, it also provides additional flavors on tossed salads. Just think of your favorite recipes with cheese and substitute mozzarella as a healthier option during pregnancy.

Read also: Easy-to-make, Healthy Cheese Recipes for Kids

A recap

You can still enjoy your favorite cheese dishes and treats even during pregnancy. All you need to do is choose a variety of cheese that is proven safe to consume while pregnant. Is mozzarella cheese safe to eat during pregnancy? Yes. It is one of the best cheese to recommend during gestation. And as a constant reminder, for safety purposes, it is always advised to check on the labels of what you eat. Make sure that you choose pasteurized mozzarella cheese to avoid the possible risk of listeria and always consume the product in moderation.

Read also:

• Spinach – The Best Diet For Woman During Pregnancy
• Creative and Healthy Ways to Cook Mac and Cheese for Your Kids
• Fruits for Pregnancy: What are the Benefits of Eating Dates During Pregnancy