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Soft cheeses
Avoiding certain soft cheeses is generally recommended due to the potential risk of a bacterium called Listeria monocytogenes. It can cause listeriosis – a foodborne illness. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of listeriosis because their immune system undergoes changes that make them more susceptible to infections.
Soft cheeses with a high moisture content or made from unpasteurized milk are more likely to harbor Listeria bacteria. Examples of soft cheeses to avoid during pregnancy include:
- Brie
- Camembert
- Feta
- Goat cheese (chevre)
- Roquefort
- Queso fresco
- Queso blanco
It’s essential to ensure that any cheese you consume during pregnancy is made from pasteurized milk. Most cheeses sold in the United States and many other countries are made from pasteurized milk and are safe to eat during pregnancy.