Is Scallops safe during pregnancy?
Best Choice (lower mercury) — enjoy scallops (cooked) cooked, 2–3 servings a week in pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
What the sources say
FDA/EPA list scallops (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 until the flesh is firm, pearly and opaque (or until shells open for clams, oysters and mussels; discard any that don't open). Raw or partially cooked shellfish is not recommended in pregnancy. CDC gives breastfeeding parents the same fish advice.
Also listed as
scallop, sea scallops, bay scallops, seared scallops
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.