Is Deli Meat Safe During Pregnancy? Here’s What Experts Say
For many, deli meat is a lunchtime staple, but during pregnancy, its safety becomes a concern. A recent listeria outbreak tied to Boar’s Head products has heightened worries around consuming deli meats, as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports 59 hospitalizations and 10 deaths linked to contaminated deli products since July.
Understanding the Risks
One of the primary risks of consuming unheated deli meat during pregnancy is the potential for listeriosis, a foodborne illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes.
This infection poses severe risks during pregnancy, including complications such as miscarriage, preterm labor, or stillbirth.
“Pregnant people are more vulnerable to developing infections like listeriosis,” says Liz Weinandy, MPH, RDN, LD, of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, noting that the immune system is naturally suppressed to prevent the body from rejecting the fetus.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pregnant individuals are ten times more likely to develop listeriosis than the general population.
While these odds sound concerning, OB/GYN Dr. Carolyn Cokes, MD, MPH, emphasizes that the occurrence of pregnancy-related listeriosis is exceptionally rare. Research indicates 2.27 cases per 100,000 among non-Hispanic patients and 8.9 per 100,000 among Hispanic patients.
Can You Eat Deli Meat During Pregnancy?
Experts agree that deli meats are safe to consume during pregnancy if they’re thoroughly heated to an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring that they’re steaming hot.
Weinandy recommends heating the meat in the oven, microwave, or boiling water to kill any potentially harmful bacteria.
“People who are pregnant should definitely take the steps to make sure that they’re being safe [if] they eat these meats,” she advises.
Recognizing Symptoms of Listeriosis
Listeriosis can initially mimic flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and fatigue, which are often nonspecific but should prompt immediate medical consultation during pregnancy.
“Reach out to your doctor at the onset of symptoms,” Cokes emphasizes, adding that early intervention can improve outcomes.
Listeriosis in newborns may lead to severe health issues, including serious illness or even death, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment.
While pregnancy raises specific risks, experts underscore that heating deli meats can mitigate these dangers, allowing individuals to enjoy their meals safely.
Learn more about safely enjoying deli meats and other foods during pregnancy by visiting our homepage.
