Holiday festivities often bring a variety of foods and drinks that may not be part of our everyday diet. For pregnant and breastfeeding women, it’s crucial to consider, ‘Is it safe for the baby?’ As a teratogen information specialist at MotherToBaby, I frequently address these concerns through our texting service (855-999-3525), especially during the holiday season. Here’s some insightful guidance to help you make informed choices.
Eggnog and Other Holiday Beverages
Eggnog is a staple at many holiday gatherings. It’s important to determine if the eggnog is homemade or store-bought. Homemade versions may contain raw eggs, posing a risk of salmonella. Commercially produced eggnog typically uses pasteurized eggs and may even be heated during packaging, reducing this risk. Also, check for alcohol content, as rum is a common addition. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid alcohol, including in mulled wine, wassail, hot buttered rum, wine, and champagne. Opting for mocktails or non-alcoholic punch is a safer choice. For more details, refer to our Alcohol Fact Sheet.
Seafood and Meats
Questions about smoked salmon are common. Since smoked salmon is cured rather than cooked, it’s considered raw and should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential foodborne illnesses. However, if it’s heated to steaming, the bacterial risk is minimized. Foods like beef jerky, though high in salt, don’t pose additional risks and can be consumed in moderation. For more information, check our Fact Sheet on Eating Raw, Undercooked, or Cold Meats and Seafood.
Fruits and Vegetables
Concerns about fruits like papaya and pineapple arise due to enzymes thought to induce labor—papain in papaya and bromelain in pineapple. Fortunately, when consumed in normal amounts, these fruits have not shown adverse effects on pregnancy. Just ensure fruits are thoroughly washed before serving.
Regarding eggplant dishes like eggplant parmesan or ratatouille, eggplant is nutritious and safe when cooked. Although it belongs to the Nightshade family, which contains potentially toxic alkaloids in leaves and tubers, the fruit itself poses no known risks during pregnancy when cooked.
Desserts
Traditional desserts such as tiramisu contain Marsala wine, rum, and caffeine from coffee or espresso. While alcohol should be avoided, low to moderate caffeine intake (200 to 300 mg per day) has not been linked to increased pregnancy risks. Refer to our Caffeine Fact Sheet for more details.
Who knew that holiday menus could require so much consideration during pregnancy and breastfeeding? With the added stress of COVID-19 and recommendations to avoid large gatherings, you might have more questions than ever. We hope this information helps you relax and enjoy the festivities safely!
