Can I Eat Soft Cheese During Pregnancy? UK Safety Guide
Can I eat soft cheese during pregnancy?
Cheese is a beloved part of many diets, but pregnancy brings added caution around listeria and other foodborne risks. Understanding the difference between pasteurised and unpasteurised, and mould-ripened versus non-mould-ripened, is the key to enjoying cheese safely while expecting.
The short answer
It depends on the type. Soft cheeses made from pasteurised milk are usually safe if cooked until piping hot. Mould-ripened soft cheeses should be avoided unless thoroughly cooked.
Which soft cheese are safe to eat in pregnancy?
- Pasteurised mozzarella - safe
- Pasteurised feta - safe
- Pasteurised cottage cheese - safe
- Pasteurised ricotta - safe
- Pasteurised cream cheese - safe
- Halloumi and paneer - safe
- Hard cheeses such as cheddar and parmesan - safe
Which soft cheese should you avoid?
- Mould-ripened soft cheeses like brie, camembert and chevre - unless cooked until steaming hot
- Soft blue cheeses like roquefort, gorgonzola and danish blue - unless cooked thoroughly
- Any soft cheese made from unpasteurised (raw) milk
- Cheese with a rind that has been washed (e.g. Epoisses) unless cooked
Why these rules matter
Pasteurisation heats milk to a temperature that kills harmful bacteria including listeria. Soft cheeses made from pasteurised milk that are not mould-ripened are considered low risk in the UK.
Mould-ripened and blue-veined soft cheeses are higher in moisture and less acidic, creating an environment where listeria can grow. Listeriosis in pregnancy can cause serious complications including miscarriage and stillbirth, so caution is well justified.
How to prepare soft cheese safely at home
- Always check the label for pasteurised milk
- Cook brie or camembert until bubbling throughout if you want to enjoy it melted
- Store cheese in the fridge below 5 degrees C and respect use-by dates
- Avoid cheese from deli counters if you are unsure of its origin
Nutritional benefits of soft cheese in pregnancy
- Calcium: Essential for your baby developing bones and teeth
- Protein: Supports tissue growth for you and your baby
- Vitamin B12: Important for nervous system health
- Phosphorus: Works with calcium for bone development
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat mozzarella on a pizza while pregnant?
Yes - mozzarella made from pasteurised milk is safe, and cooking it on a pizza until bubbling makes it even safer.
Is cooked brie safe in pregnancy?
Yes, if it is cooked until steaming hot throughout. Baked brie that is fully melted and piping hot is considered safe.
Can I eat feta in pregnancy?
If it is made from pasteurised milk, feta is safe. Check the packaging to be sure.
What about goats cheese?
Soft goats cheese (chevre) should be avoided unless cooked thoroughly. Hard pasteurised goats cheese is fine.
The takeaway
Many soft cheeses are safe in pregnancy if they are made from pasteurised milk. Avoid mould-ripened and blue soft cheeses unless cooked through, and always read the label.