Is Parmesan safe during pregnancy?
Hard cheese like parmesan is a safer choice — pick versions made with pasteurized milk.
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. Some imported hard cheeses are made from raw milk — read 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
parmigiano reggiano, parmigiano-reggiano, grana padano, grated parmesan, pecorino romano, romano cheese
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.