Is it safe to eat mayonnaise when pregnant?
Quick Answer
Yes, but with precautions.
It’s generally safe to eat mayonnaise when pregnant if it’s made with pasteurized eggs. Commercially produced mayonnaise, which is made with pasteurized eggs, is considered safe. However, homemade mayonnaise or any mayonnaise made with raw eggs should be avoided due to the risk of salmonella.
What Is It?
Mayonnaise is a thick, creamy sauce or dressing that is made of oil, egg yolks, lemon juice or vinegar, and seasonings.
Why It Can Be Risky
The main risk associated with eating mayonnaise during pregnancy is the potential exposure to salmonella, a bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
- Salmonella: Raw eggs can be contaminated with salmonella, which can cause serious illness in pregnant women and can potentially harm the fetus.
- Listeria: Although rare, there’s a small risk that mayonnaise could be contaminated with listeria, a bacteria that can cause a type of food poisoning called listeriosis.
Safe Method?
To safely eat mayonnaise during pregnancy, ensure it’s made with pasteurized eggs. Most commercially produced mayonnaise is made with pasteurized eggs and is safe to eat.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re concerned about the risks associated with eating mayonnaise during pregnancy, you can opt for egg-free mayonnaise or other dressings like vinaigrette.
Storage Tips
Always store mayonnaise in the refrigerator and use it before the expiration date to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.