Many traditional holiday foods carry a higher risk of bacteria that can be especially harmful during pregnancy. This includes raw, undercooked, or unpasteurized items like eggnog, soft cheeses, and certain seafood. You don’t have to miss out, though. There are plenty of safe, delicious alternatives to traditional dishes that are safe for you to enjoy.
While sticking to your pregnancy-safe diet can be tricky during the feast-heavy holidays, knowing what to steer clear of — and what to load onto your plate instead — can help.
Why are some holiday foods unsafe during pregnancy?
Missing out on certain holiday food might not be fun, but it's for good reason. Your immune system isn't as strong as usual during pregnancy, and your baby's is still developing, which means both of you are more susceptible to the bacteria that are in some undercooked or raw foods.
"I'm taking the standard precautions," says What to Expect Community mom tk-ya. "I already feel horrible and don't want to risk getting ill. Doesn't seem worth it!"
"The problem when you're pregnant is that your immune system is weaker AND you'd be fighting for two," says Community member Rex95. "I'm really cautious. It's not worth the risk for me."
Get more expert advice and connect with other moms with babies due the same month as yours on our free What to Expect app.
Can I drink homemade eggnog?
Homemade eggnog is often made with raw or undercooked eggs that may contain salmonella. So even if the nog isn't spiked with rum or whiskey, it can still be a holiday no-no.
Commercially manufactured eggnog (the kind you get premixed in cartons) is safe, since it's made with pasteurized eggs.
Can I drink a cocktail?
Better not. Health experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), say no amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy.
For a festive and refreshing holiday party drink, mix up a mocktail. Combine cranberry juice with sparkling water, garnish with a sprig of mint, and serve in a cocktail glass.
Can I drink apple cider?
Fresh apple cider is another classic holiday beverage to avoid. Bacteria such as E. coli and salmonella can be present in unpasteurized juices, so avoid "homemade" ciders like the ones found at apple orchards, fruit stands, and farmers markets unless the juice is pasteurized.
Pasteurized juices, like many found in grocery stores, are safe. Or, for a sweet and safe alternative in the same spirit, sprinkle a little cinnamon, allspice, and sugar on fresh apple slices.
Can I eat turkey?
Your holiday bird is safe to eat — as long as it's cooked through. To zap bacteria and parasites like E. coli, trichinella and toxoplasmosis, roast your turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Always use a meat thermometer to check, since you can't tell just by looking whether it's fully cooked.
The same goes for any grilled meat — those grill marks don't necessarily mean the food is heated to a safe temperature. Digital thermometers give an instant, accurate reading.
Can I eat brisket?
This classic slow-cooked Hanukkah dish is also safe as long as it reaches an internal temperature of 160 degrees F to kill off any bacteria.
Can I eat stuffing?
Ask your host whether the stuffing was prepared inside or outside the turkey. If it was inside, make sure it reached 165 degrees F.
It's also a good idea to avoid pre-stuffed turkeys. Stuffing that's prepared separately from the bird is fine.
Can I eat soft cheeses?
Imported soft cheeses — think Brie, Camembert, feta, and blue cheese — are staples of holiday food buffets. But unless the packaging clearly says "pasteurized," there's no guarantee these cheeses aren't made with raw milk, which may contain listeria, disease-causing bacteria that can be risky during pregnancy.
Listeria contamination is rare, but expectant mothers are more than 10 times more likely to develop an infection from it.[1]
Hard cheeses are okay, though, so feel free to top your cracker with Gouda, cheddar, or Parmesan.
What about eating spicy cheese dips and other hot foods while pregnant? Go ahead and take a dip. There's no evidence indicating that hot or spicy foods will induce labor.
Can I eat seafood?
Raw seafood — such as oysters, ceviche, smoked salmon, and sushi — are off-limits during pregnancy since they can contain listeria and other bacteria. Same goes for undercooked fish, which may contain parasites.
Cooked seafood is safe, especially low-mercury varieties like crab, shrimp, wild salmon, and lobster. Aim for about two to three servings of this seafood per week to support your baby's brain development.
Can I have caffeine?
It's okay to consume up to 200 milligrams of caffeine daily during pregnancy (about the equivalent of a 12-ounce cup of coffee).
But keep in mind that caffeine is also found in hot cocoa and chocolate candies and desserts — all holiday food favorites that can quickly add up.
Can I have charcuterie?
The salami and pâté on the buffet table may be tempting, but it's best to avoid cured meats for now. They may contain listeria and nitrates used for preservation, which can pose risks during pregnancy.
Stick to other appetizers, like crostini, instead.
Can I have leftovers?
Avoid foods that have been left out at room temperature for more than two hours, as bacteria can grow quickly on many holiday party foods. Make sure leftovers are refrigerated promptly.
Yes 
No 
