If you’re pregnant, you might have heard that deli meat is a no-go. But why can’t pregnant women have deli meat? Is there something wrong with it? Is it dangerous?
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the reasons why can’t pregnant women eat deli food and/or why they should avoid deli meat, and how to stay safe while eating during pregnancy.
Deli meats are convenient lunchtime staples such as cold cuts, ham, turkey, roast beef and other processed meats found in grocery stores.
However, these products can contain a bacteria called listeria monocytogenes which can cause food poisoning in some people.
Thus, why can’t pregnant women eat deli meat? That’s because pregnant women are more susceptible to listeriosis than other healthy adults because changes in the body make them more vulnerable to food-borne illnesses.
If infected with listeriosis during pregnancy, a pregnant woman has an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
Although rare, infection during pregnancy can also cause serious illness or death in newborns.
To reduce your risk of listeriosis while pregnant, be sure to:
- Avoid cold cuts or deli meats unless they are heated until steaming hot
- Wash your hands after handling any raw or ready-to-eat foods (including fruits and vegetables)
- Keep all foods refrigerated until you are ready to eat them
- Clean all surfaces that have come into contact with raw meat before using them for other foods
It’s important to note that not all deli meats present risks—if cooked properly and handled correctly—but it’s best for the health of both you and your baby if you avoid them altogether until after giving birth.
These precautions are recommended while you’re pregnant.
Eating during pregnancy can be challenging since many of the usual favorites may not be safe anymore.
When it comes to deli meats such as cold cuts or ham however, it’s best for both mom and baby if these items are avoided altogether until after delivery—unless they are heated until steaming hot first!
By following the safety tips outlined above and being mindful of what you consume while pregnant, you can ensure that both you and your little one stay safe throughout your pregnancy journey!
