Is Cheddar safe during pregnancy?
Hard cheese like cheddar is a safer choice — pick versions made with pasteurized milk.
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceStrong
What the sources say
CDC lists hard cheeses made with pasteurized milk (such as Cheddar, Parmesan, Asiago and Swiss) as safer choices in pregnancy and advises avoiding any cheese made with raw milk. NHS considers hard cheeses lower risk even when unpasteurized, but US guidance is more cautious, so check the label. Cheese sliced at a deli counter should be heated to 165°F or until steaming hot (CDC). No special restriction while breastfeeding (CDC).
Also listed as
cheddar cheese, sharp cheddar, mild cheddar, white cheddar, colby, colby jack, monterey jack, shredded cheddar
Sources
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- CDC: Preventing Listeria Infection
- NHS: Foods to avoid in pregnancy
- CDC: Maternal Diet and Breastfeeding
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.