Is Goat cheese safe during pregnancy?
Fine when made with pasteurized milk — check the label. Avoid goat cheese made from raw milk.
What the sources say
CDC lists goat cheese made with pasteurized milk as a safer choice in pregnancy; cheese made from raw (unpasteurized) milk is a Listeria risk. Check the label for "made with pasteurized milk," especially at farmers markets, specialty shops and restaurants. NHS advises cooking soft goat cheese with a white rind (like some chèvre) until steaming hot, even if pasteurized; pasteurized rindless goat cheese is fine. No special restriction while breastfeeding (CDC).
Also listed as
chèvre, chevre, fresh goat cheese, goat's milk cheese, crottin, bucheron, goat cheese log
Sources
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- 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.