Goat’s Cheese During Pregnancy: Safety, Risks, and Best Choices

Cheese is often a favorite food, but during pregnancy, moms-to-be must be extra careful about what types of cheese they eat. Goat’s cheese, also known as chèvre, raises common questions for expectant mothers. Is it safe? What are the risks? And which varieties can be enjoyed without worry? Let’s explore the answers in detail.

Is Goat Cheese Safe During Pregnancy?

The safety of goat’s cheese depends on two key factors: whether it is pasteurized and whether it is hard or soft.

• Safe: Pasteurized goat cheese, especially hard or semi-hard types.
• Risky: Soft, mold-ripened, or unpasteurized goat cheese (such as chèvre logs with a white rind).

The main concern is listeria infection, a foodborne illness that can be harmful during pregnancy. Heating goat cheese until steaming hot, however, makes it safe to eat.

Risks of Eating Unpasteurized Goat Cheese

Soft, unpasteurized goat cheese may carry Listeria monocytogenes. This bacteria can cause listeriosis, which may lead to serious complications such as:

• Miscarriage
• Premature birth
• Severe illness in newborns

Although the risk is small, health organizations like the CDC and NHS advise avoiding these types of cheese altogether during pregnancy.

Nutritional Benefits of Safe Goat Cheese

When pasteurized and safe to eat, goat cheese offers several health benefits for pregnant women:

• Rich in protein – supports baby’s growth.
• Calcium – strengthens bones and teeth.
• Probiotics – may help digestion (in pasteurized probiotic varieties).
• Lower in lactose than cow’s milk cheese, making it easier to digest for some women.

Best Choices for Expectant Moms

During pregnancy, the safest goat cheeses include:

• Hard goat cheese made from pasteurized milk.
• Semi-hard varieties like gouda or cheddar made with goat’s milk.
• Cooked goat cheese dishes (e.g., pizza, pasta, casseroles).

Avoid soft, mold-ripened varieties unless cooked until piping hot.

Conclusion

Goat’s cheese can be both safe and healthy during pregnancy, as long as expectant mothers stick to pasteurized and hard types. Soft, unpasteurized, or mold-ripened goat cheeses should be avoided due to the risk of listeria. When in doubt, read labels carefully and consult your doctor for personalized advice.

References

• CDC – Listeria Information
• NHS – Foods to Avoid in Pregnancy
• Mayo Clinic – Pregnancy Nutrition

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making dietary changes during pregnancy.