I've read in all of the pregnancy books that cold cuts and soft cheeses are a big fat NO in pregnancy because of Listeriosis. However, everyone that I ask in day-to-day life (including my midwife!) says that they've never heard of not being able to eat cold cuts. In my first pregnancy 2 years ago, I stayed away from them pretty well, but now I'm craving ham and cheese in the worst way. I've heard of steaming them till hot, but hot food sounds gross to me. Any one else feel ham sandwiches are ok??? Please help! ↓
I asked my doctor about lunch meats and he said they were perfectly fine. He said the only thing I should stay away from are buffets and caffeine among a couple other little things. I did read all that stuff too though, so I know how confusing the 'don't do' list can be! ↑
They say "fresh cut" is ok, like the deli and if used quickly but not Subway or Quiznos as it is precut and sits for awhile. I think bologna is the worst. I just heat mine up. The soft cheeses are not pastuerized so they pose a slightly higher risk than deli meats. The choice is of course yours. ↑
If you're concerned about the cold cuts...just heat them up. I think the chance of Listeriosis is very slim and I read somewhere that heat will kill Listeriosis. So if you're worried about it...I'd have a HOT Ham & Cheese...those are better anyway. Oh, and the FDA requires that all cheeses made in the US be pasturized so just check the lable on your blue cheese, feta, and brie and you'll know whether it's safe to eat. ↑
Yes I checked the labels on the cheeses and they all say "Made with pasteurized milk" so I wouldn't feel too bad about that. The deli meats still worry me a little, and yes, I know heating them up will kill the germs but like I said before, hot food is not too appetizing right now for me. Maybe soon! Ok, thanks for your responses. ↑
