Is Pepperoni safe during pregnancy?
Hot pizza with pepperoni is fine — it's been heated until steaming. Reheat cold leftover slices until hot.
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceModerate
What the sources say
CDC says fermented or dry sausages (like pepperoni) are safer for pregnant people when heated to 165°F or until steaming hot, and NHS says the same for cold cured meats. Pepperoni baked on a hot pizza meets this. Reheat leftover pizza to 165°F (USDA leftovers guidance) and refrigerate slices within 2 hours. Toppings like fresh mozzarella should be made with pasteurized milk. No special restriction while breastfeeding (CDC).
Common alternatives
Also listed as
pepperoni pizza, pizza with salami, meat lovers pizza, sausage pizza
Sources
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- NHS: Foods to avoid in pregnancy
- USDA/FSIS: Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart
- USDA/FSIS: Leftovers and Food Safety
- CDC: Maternal Diet and Breastfeeding
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.