If you’re one of the millions of pregnant women who will be sitting down to eat Thanksgiving dinner this year, you might be wondering what your plate will look like as you get ready for your feast. As everyone knows, some foods are forbidden when pregnant because they could harm you or your unborn child. But Thanksgiving is a time to feast, and you don’t want to skip the turkey in particular!
Deli meat is a staple in many households, but during pregnancy, concerns about food safety and potential health risks come into play This article delves into the complexities of whether pregnant people can safely consume deli meat, exploring the potential risks, safety precautions, and alternative options
Understanding the Risks:
The primary concern surrounding deli meat consumption during pregnancy is the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause listeriosis. While listeriosis is relatively uncommon, it can have severe consequences for pregnant people and their developing babies. Infection can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, and even serious health problems for the newborn.
Minimizing the Risks:
Fortunately there are steps pregnant people can take to minimize the risk of listeriosis from deli meat:
- Choose pasteurized options: Opt for deli meats labeled “pasteurized” as this process effectively kills Listeria bacteria.
- Cook thoroughly: Heating deli meat until steaming hot (165°F) for at least 15 seconds eliminates any potential bacteria.
- Store properly: Keep deli meat refrigerated at 40°F or below and consume within 3-5 days of opening the package.
- Wash hands and surfaces: Thoroughly wash hands and surfaces that come into contact with deli meat to prevent cross-contamination.
Alternative Options:
If you’re still concerned about consuming deli meat, numerous delicious and safe alternatives are available:
- Freshly cooked meat: Opt for freshly cooked chicken, turkey, or beef instead of deli meat.
- Vegetarian options: Explore a variety of plant-based protein sources like tofu, tempeh, lentils, and beans.
- Hard-boiled eggs: Hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein and can be a safe and satisfying alternative to deli meat.
While deli meat can be a convenient and tasty option, pregnant people should prioritize food safety and minimize potential risks. By following the recommended precautions, choosing alternative options, and consulting with their healthcare provider, pregnant individuals can enjoy a healthy and fulfilling diet without compromising their well-being or that of their developing baby.
Additional Resources:
- American Pregnancy Association: Deli Meat in Pregnancy | Can You Eat Deli Meat While Pregnant?
- FamilyEducation: Can You Eat Thanksgiving Turkey While Pregnant? (And What Foods To Avoid!)
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I eat deli meat if it’s been heated?
Yes, heating deli meat until steaming hot (165°F) for at least 15 seconds effectively kills Listeria bacteria.
- What are some safe alternatives to deli meat?
Freshly cooked meat, vegetarian options like tofu and lentils, and hard-boiled eggs are all safe and healthy alternatives.
- Should I avoid all deli meat during pregnancy?
While it’s not necessary to completely avoid deli meat, it’s crucial to choose pasteurized options, cook them thoroughly, and store them properly.
- When should I talk to my doctor about deli meat consumption?
If you have any concerns or questions about consuming deli meat during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Remember:
Always prioritize food safety during pregnancy and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. By making informed choices and following recommended precautions, you can ensure a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy journey.
Thanksgiving Foods to Avoid When Pregnant
No matter what trimester you are in when you sit down for Thanksgiving dinner, some foods should be avoided even though eating turkey may be okay if you are pregnant.
These include:
- Unpasteurized dairy
- Stuffing cooked inside a turkey
- Undercooked meats
- High salt foods
- Alcohol
Consuming these foods may result in more serious issues like listeria and salmonella infections or hand edema. When it comes to alcohol, even a glass of wine is not recommended.
Pregnant women will also want to avoid pâté. Some people serve it as an appetizer to their Thanksgiving dinner. Pâté is a combination of fat and cooked ground meat. According to the American Pregnancy Association, refrigerated pâté should be avoided because it may contain the bacteria listeria. Canned pâté is okay to eat. Soft cheeses like feta, gorgonzola, queso fresco, brie, and camembert, are also a big no-no if you see them on your Thanksgiving Day table because they may contain listeria.
Raw sprouts such as alfalfa, clover, and radishes should not be included in salads because bacteria can enter the seeds before the sprouts develop. Moreover, you should make sure that any vegetables you eat are cleaned to prevent contracting toxoplasmosis. This may contaminate the soil where the vegetables came from.
Apple cider can be part of your Thanksgiving dinner as long as its pasteurized. Unpasteurized cider can lead to foodborne illnesses and have been linked to E. coli outbreaks.
Is Thanksgiving Turkey Safe for Pregnant Women?
Lets talk turkey. Although turkey is a Thanksgiving staple, many women frequently ask their Ob-Gyn if they can consume turkey while pregnant.
Theres no need to get your feathers in an uproar, Thanksgiving turkey can be a part of your Thanksgiving meal when youre pregnant if its cooked to the right internal temperature. According to the USDA, the safe minimum internal temperature to cook a turkey is 165 degrees Fahrenheit. But, some doctors recommend turkey be cooked to 180 degrees for pregnant women.
Obviously, you should pass on the turkey (as should everyone else at the table) if it appears undercooked or raw. Eating undercooked turkey poses the risk of food poisoning caused by Salmonella bacteria. Thoroughly cooking turkey kills the Salmonella bacteria.
You will need to reheat it if you plan to make a turkey sandwich with leftovers the following day. Cold meat is a big no-no because of listeria concerns. A warm turkey sandwich is a safer choice.