Is Deli-sliced cheese safe during pregnancy?
Cheese sliced at a deli counter is safest heated to 165°F or until steaming hot (like in a grilled sandwich).
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
CDC lists unheated cheese sliced at a deli as a riskier choice in pregnancy and advises heating deli-sliced cheese to 165°F or until steaming hot. Pre-packaged hard cheese made with pasteurized milk is a safer cold option. No special restriction while breastfeeding (CDC).
Common alternatives
Also listed as
deli cheese, cheese sliced at the deli, deli counter cheese, sliced provolone, provolone, deli swiss, deli american cheese
Sources
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.