Pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation for many women who are expecting. But it can also be uncertain as you navigate all the changes happening in your body and try to figure out what is and isn’t safe for you and your baby. So if you’re wondering whether it’s okay to indulge in caviar while pregnant, we have the answer!
What is Caviar?
Caviar is a type of delicacy made from salted fish eggs. It’s usually made from sturgeon and other fish species but can also be made from salmon, lumpfish, whitefish, and more. Caviar is an expensive delicacy that has been enjoyed for centuries worldwide, especially beluga caviar.
Is Caviar Safe to Eat When Pregnant?
Caviar is salt-cured fish eggs; technically speaking, it is safe to eat during pregnancy. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before indulging.
First, it’s essential to check the source of your caviar to make sure that it comes from a reputable supplier. This is important because caviar from certain fish can contain high levels of mercury, which can be harmful to you and your baby. Mercury can accumulate in your body over time, so avoiding foods high in mercury during pregnancy is best. Some types of fish known to contain high levels of mercury include sharks, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel. So if you’re planning on eating caviar from one of these fish, it’s best to steer clear.
It’s also important to note that pregnant women should be aware of any potential allergens in caviar and take extra precautions if necessary. Additionally, it is best to limit consumption due to the high sodium content, which can lead to water retention and swelling.
Bacteria
It is generally considered safe for pregnant women to consume pasteurized caviar in moderation. Pasteurization involves heating the eggs to a specific temperature that kills off bacteria and other contaminants. However, unpasteurized varieties are unsafe to eat while pregnant as they can contain harmful bacteria.
In addition, it’s important to note that caviar can sometimes be contaminated with bacteria such as listeria. Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning, and it can be hazardous for pregnant women because it can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth. Symptoms of listeriosis include fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms after eating caviar or any other type of food, be sure to see a doctor immediately.
So while caviar is technically safe to eat during pregnancy, there are a few things to keep in mind before indulging. First, we recommend talking to your doctor or midwife before consuming caviar or any other type of seafood during pregnancy just to be safe.
In short, yes—you can eat caviar when pregnant! However, there are a few things you should keep in mind first. First, ensure you know the source of your caviar and whether the fish contains high levels of mercury. Additionally, be aware that caviar can sometimes be contaminated with bacteria such as listeria, which can cause food poisoning and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women. If you have concerns about eating caviar or seafood during pregnancy, talk to your doctor or midwife first.
See the foods to avoid by the NHS for more info during pregnancy.