Is it safe to eat salmon sashimi when pregnant?
Quick Answer
It’s generally not recommended.
While salmon is a healthy food, raw salmon (like in sashimi) can carry parasites or harmful bacteria. Pregnant women have a weaker immune system and are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses.
What Is It?
Salmon sashimi is a Japanese delicacy consisting of fresh salmon served raw, often with soy sauce and wasabi.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating raw or undercooked fish, such as salmon sashimi, during pregnancy carries several risks:
- Risk of foodborne illnesses like listeria and salmonella, which can harm the mother and fetus.
- Risk of exposure to mercury, which can affect fetal brain development.
- Risk of exposure to parasites, such as anisakis, which can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
Safe Method?
If you’re pregnant and craving salmon sashimi, consider alternatives like cooked salmon or vegetarian sushi.
Safe Alternatives
- Cooked salmon: This can be a safer choice as cooking kills bacteria and parasites.
- Vegetarian sushi: This eliminates the risk of foodborne illnesses from raw fish.