Is Salmon safe during pregnancy?
Best Choice (lower mercury) — enjoy salmon (cooked) cooked, 2–3 servings a week in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
What the sources say
FDA/EPA list salmon (cooked) as a "Best Choice" (lower mercury) for people who are or may become pregnant or are breastfeeding: 2–3 servings a week from this list (8–12 oz total; 1 serving = 4 oz before cooking). Cook to 145°F or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork; raw or undercooked fish (sushi, sashimi, ceviche) and refrigerated smoked fish are not recommended in pregnancy. Smoked salmon/lox and raw salmon (sushi, poke) are separate entries. CDC gives breastfeeding parents the same fish advice.
Also listed as
atlantic salmon, sockeye salmon, coho salmon, king salmon, chinook salmon, pink salmon, canned salmon, salmon fillet, grilled salmon, baked salmon
Sources
- FDA: Advice about Eating Fish
- CDC: Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
- CDC: Maternal Diet and Breastfeeding
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.