<u>Unpasteurized</u> soft cheeses during pregnancy: can you eat it?

<u>Unpasteurized</u> soft cheeses

Rather not recommended

Pasteurization significantly reduces the risk of listeriosis: epidemiological data estimate a 50 to 160 times lower risk per serving for pasteurized soft cheeses compared to raw milk cheeses (Jackson et al., 2018).

However, outbreaks linked to pasteurized cheeses contaminated after production have been documented, meaning pasteurization alone does not guarantee the absence of risk. Manufacturing hygiene conditions and the cold chain are equally important.

As a precaution, it is recommended to favor pasteurized soft cheeses during pregnancy.

Examples: unpasteurized Camembert, Brie, Livarot, Maroilles

To learn more, read our comprehensive guide: everything you need to know about this food during pregnancy

Sources and references

Jackson et al., "Listeriosis Outbreaks Associated with Soft Cheeses, United States, 1998–2014", Emerg Infect Dis. 2018
Gould et al., "Outbreaks attributed to cheese: differences between outbreaks caused by unpasteurized and pasteurized dairy products, United States, 1998-2011", Foodborne Pathog Dis. 2014

Frequently asked questions

Can you eat raw milk cheese while pregnant?

Raw milk soft cheeses are not recommended during pregnancy. The risk of listeriosis is 50 to 160 times higher than with pasteurized cheese. Opt for pasteurized versions.

Raw milk cheese and pregnancy: what are the risks?

The main risk is listeriosis. The bacterium Listeria monocytogenes can survive in raw milk and grow in soft cheeses. Listeriosis can cause miscarriages, premature births, or neonatal infections.

Which raw milk cheeses should you avoid while pregnant?

Avoid raw milk soft cheeses: Camembert de Normandie AOP, Brie de Meaux, Brie de Melun, farmhouse Reblochon, Mont d'Or, Epoisses. Raw milk hard cheeses (Comté, Parmesan) remain allowed.