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Smoked salmon during pregnancy: can you eat it?

Smoked salmon during pregnancy — food recommendations

Smoked salmon

  Consume shortly after opening

You can safely eat smoked fish shortly after removing it from its food packaging. As a precaution, it is recommended not to eat artisanal smoked fish or smoked fish that has been opened for more than 24 hours.

The main risk with smoked salmon is contamination by listeria, which can develop in long-shelf-life refrigerated products. Cold smoking does not cook the fish and does not destroy the bacterium.

To minimize risks: eat smoked salmon quickly after opening the package, check the expiration date, and store it at a temperature below 4°C (39°F). Cooked smoked salmon (in a quiche or gratin) is safe.

Salmon is also an excellent fish for pregnancy: rich in omega-3 and low in mercury. If you want to eat it regularly, prefer it cooked (baked, in parchment, pan-fried).

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

Sources and references

  1. ANSES — Smoked fish consumption and risk of listeriosis
  2. Public Health France — Pregnancy nutrition guide
  3. EFSA — Listeria monocytogenes contamination of ready-to-eat foods

Frequently asked questions

Can you eat smoked salmon while pregnant?

Yes, with conditions. Vacuum-packed smoked salmon can be eaten quickly after opening. Avoid artisanal smoked salmon or salmon opened for more than 24 hours due to the risk of listeriosis.

Smoked salmon and pregnancy: what are the risks?

The main risk is listeriosis. Listeria can develop in refrigerated smoked salmon, even when vacuum-packed. This risk is eliminated by consuming the product quickly after opening.

I ate smoked salmon while pregnant, what should I do?

If the smoked salmon was vacuum-packed and recently opened, the risk is very low. Watch for fever or flu-like symptoms in the following weeks and consult a doctor if in doubt.

Can you eat cooked salmon while pregnant?

Yes, cooked salmon is perfectly safe and even recommended during pregnancy. Rich in omega-3 and low in mercury, it is one of the best fish for pregnant women.

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