Is Clams safe during pregnancy?
Best Choice (lower mercury) — enjoy clams (cooked) cooked, 2–3 servings a week in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
What the sources say
FDA/EPA list clams (cooked) as a "Best Choice" (lower mercury) for people who are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding: 2–3 servings a week from this list (8–12 oz total; 1 serving = 4 oz before cooking). Cook until the flesh is firm, pearly and opaque (or until shells open for clams, oysters and mussels; discard any that don't open). Raw or partially cooked shellfish is not recommended in pregnancy. CDC gives breastfeeding parents the same fish advice.
Also listed as
clam, steamed clams, clam chowder, littleneck clams, cherrystone clams, quahog, linguine with clams
Sources
- FDA: Advice about Eating Fish
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- CDC: Maternal Diet and Breastfeeding
- FDA: Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood Safely
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.