Are shellfish allowed during pregnancy? When pregnant, are you allowed to eat oysters, whelks, langoustines, mussels or shrimps… Although they are not prohibited during pregnancy, they must however only be eaten cooked. Advice from Odile Bagot, gynecologist.
Pregnant, can I eat seafood? How to cook them and what precautions to take when you are a fan of shrimps, whelks, scallops and others shellfish ? Rich in minerals, trace elements, omega 3 and vitamin B12, essential nutrients for the proper development of the fetus and the health of the future mother, Seafood should nevertheless be eaten in moderation during pregnancy, and especially well cooked. We take stock with gynecologist Odile Bagot.
What are the risks if I eat seafood while pregnant?
The consumption of raw seafood is associated with a risk of listeriosisa serious food infection that can cause miscarriage, premature delivery or a neonatal infection or even the death of the newborn. “A lack of freshness or poor conservation of seafood can also lead to a salmonellosiswhich manifests as gastroenteritis, most often mild, but there are sometimes serious forms with sepsis and multi-organ involvement, says Dr. Odile Bagot, gynecologist. Moreover, some seafood may be contaminated with the hepatitis A virus found in the water. Acute hepatitis A in pregnant women is associated with the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery. Finally, “seafood can be contaminated with heavy metals and endocrine disruptors, it is therefore essential not to consume it too regularly”.
“ISeafood can be contaminated with heavy metals and endocrine disruptors.”
What seafood are prohibited during pregnancy?
No seafood is prohibited per se during pregnancy. What is, on the other hand, is the fact of consuming them raw or undercooked. because they are then potential carriers of germs.
- A pregnant woman can therefore eat shellfish (crabs, prawns, langoustines, lobsters, prawns, crayfish…)
- It can also consume shellfish (whelks, oysters, mussels, scallops, clams, etc.)as long as she sees to it that they are extremely fresh and cooked to perfection.
- However, oysters, which are usually eaten raw, should be bannedexcept to eat them well cooked, au gratin in the oven for example.
- same for me moldswhich require thorough cooking.
- Whelks and winkles can be cooked in a court-bouillon for about twenty minutes. “It’s not a question of the type of seafood because listeria and salmonella can grow on all raw foods. They can be consumed occasionally, provided they are cooked through“, shades the gynecologist.
- The crab can also be added to your plate, provided it is well cooked.
- Lobster can be roasted, grilled, boiled or steamed.
Yes, it is quite possible to eat prawns during pregnancy, provided they are cooked. Be careful, however, to ensure their freshness when buying them. To cook them, nothing’s easier ! After shelling them, brown them in a pan with a little butter, garlic and parsley, or simply with a drizzle of olive oil, for about twenty minutes. When the flesh is colored, it means that the cooking is optimal. It’s simple, quick and easy to do. All you have to do is enjoy yourself! Prawns can be eaten cooked in the same way.
Can I eat scallops when pregnant ?
“Again, it’s all about cooking. A pregnant woman can eat scallops as long as they are well cooked.. The best way to be sure is to observe their flesh, which must be quite firm. Shellfish should be golden brown on both sides“, reacts Dr. Odile Bagot.
To make the right choice regarding seafood during pregnancytwo criteria must be taken into account:
- The freshness of shellfish : this is the sine qua non for limiting the risk of food poisoning. These must be extremely fresh and from the catch of the day. It is also necessary to ensure that the merchant respects the cold chain and other hygiene measures.
- cooking seafood : because they are likely to induce contamination by germs and bacteria, it is forbidden to consume raw seafood during pregnancy. Fortunately, cooking destroys them.
Can I eat fish when pregnant?
Rich in proteins, minerals, trace elements, vitamin D and omega 3, fish is excellent for the health of the future mother and contributes to the proper development of the foetus. With regard to its consumption, the rules are the same as those applicable for shellfish and crustaceans. Exit carpaccios, smoked salmon and sushi! Make way for well-cooked fish, baked, pan-fried, steamed or grilled, depending on your tastes.
Thanks to Odile Bagot, author of Endocrine disruptors, war is declared!published by Mango