Is Raw oysters, clams & other raw shellfish safe during pregnancy?
Not recommended during pregnancy — raw shellfish can carry Vibrio, Listeria and other germs. Cooked oysters and clams are fine.
What the sources say
CDC, FDA and Mayo Clinic advise avoiding raw or undercooked shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels, scallops) during pregnancy. CDC notes most Vibrio infections come from eating raw or undercooked shellfish, especially oysters, and raw shellfish can also carry Toxoplasma. Cook until shells open (discard any that don't) or the flesh is firm and opaque. While breastfeeding there's no special rule, but CDC lists eating raw oysters as a risk behavior for anyone.
Common alternatives
Also listed as
raw oysters, oysters on the half shell, raw clams, clams on the half shell, raw mussels, raw scallops, raw bar, oyster shooter, raw shellfish, half shell
Sources
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- FDA: People at Risk of Foodborne Illness
- CDC: About Vibrio Infection
- CDC: Preventing Toxoplasmosis
- Mayo Clinic: Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
- 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.