Enjoying Cheese Safely During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Cheese, with its rich history dating back to 8,000 BC, has been a staple in diets across the globe. Its popularity is undeniable, making it a common topic of concern for expectant and nursing mothers. At MotherToBaby, we’ve fielded nearly 300 queries about cheese on our texting service alone. Common questions include, “Can I eat cream cheese on toast?”, “Is goat cheese safe while breastfeeding?”, and “What about feta during pregnancy?”
Understanding Cheese Types
When diving into cheese varieties, one can easily get overwhelmed. With over 1,800 types categorized into seven groups, understanding cheese becomes essential, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The key concern is whether the cheese is pasteurized.
The Importance of Pasteurization
Pasteurization involves heating foods to eliminate pathogens, significantly reducing risks of bacterial infections. In the U.S., most packaged cheeses are pasteurized, ensuring safety for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Always check labels for pasteurization status, and ensure cheeses are consumed before their sell-by date and are properly refrigerated.
Unpasteurized cheeses pose a higher risk for bacteria like Listeria. However, if these cheeses are cooked or heated before consumption, risks are minimized. Hard cheeses like parmesan, which are dried, also present a lower risk and have a longer shelf life.
Hard vs. Soft Cheeses
Questions often arise about the safety of hard versus soft cheeses. Hard cheeses are ripened longer, resulting in lower moisture content and reduced bacterial growth. Conversely, soft cheeses, with higher moisture, can harbor more bacteria unless pasteurized or heated. Most U.S. soft cheeses comply with FDA pasteurization laws, but always verify labels for safety.
Nutritional Benefits of Cheese
Cheese is a valuable source of protein, calcium, and phosphorus, contributing to a healthy diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, be mindful of fat content, especially in hard cheeses, if consumed regularly.
Conclusion
By following simple guidelines—checking for pasteurization and ensuring proper heating of unpasteurized products—mothers can enjoy cheese worry-free. If you have further questions about cheese or other exposures during pregnancy, contact MotherToBaby for expert guidance. Enjoy your cheese safely!
