Can I Eat Carpaccio During Pregnancy?
At a Glance:
⚠️ Concern: Carpaccio is made with raw beef, veal, or fish, which may contain harmful bacteria and parasites like Toxoplasma, Listeria, or Salmonella.
❌ Risk Level: Not safe during pregnancy.
✅ Safe Practices: Avoid raw carpaccio entirely. Opt for well-cooked alternatives to protect you and your baby.
Carpaccio, with its thin slices of raw meat or fish dressed in olive oil, lemon, and capers, is a favorite appetizer in many restaurants. Its delicate flavors and refined presentation make it appealing — but if you’re pregnant, it is one dish best skipped.
Let’s break down why carpaccio is not safe during pregnancy and how you can enjoy similar flavors in a safer way.
Why Carpaccio Is Risky During Pregnancy
Carpaccio is served raw, meaning it does not undergo any cooking process to kill potential pathogens. Eating raw or undercooked animal products while pregnant increases the risk of exposure to:
Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause toxoplasmosis and harm fetal development
Listeria monocytogenes, which can survive in raw meats and lead to listeriosis
Salmonella, which causes severe gastrointestinal illness
Pregnant individuals have a weakened immune system, making them more vulnerable to these infections, which can result in:
Miscarriage
Preterm labor
Stillbirth
Severe illness in newborns
What About High-Quality or Restaurant Carpaccio?
Even premium or high-end restaurant carpaccio is not safe during pregnancy. No matter how fresh or carefully prepared, raw meat and fish carry risks that cannot be eliminated without thorough cooking.
A Pregnancy-Safe Carpaccio-Inspired Recipe
Beet & Arugula Carpaccio
Ingredients:
2 medium roasted beets, thinly sliced
1 cup arugula
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Shaved parmesan (pasteurized)
Instructions:
Arrange roasted beet slices on a plate.
Top with arugula and shaved parmesan.
Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Season with salt and pepper and enjoy.
Conclusion: Carpaccio Should Be Avoided
Although carpaccio is elegant and delicious, its raw preparation makes it unsafe during pregnancy due to the risk of harmful bacteria and parasites. If you crave its flavors, go for well-cooked alternatives instead.
When in doubt, check with your healthcare provider about the safest ways to enjoy restaurant dishes while expecting.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions regarding your health, pregnancy, or medical conditions.
References:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
FDA: Listeria from Food Safety for Moms to Be:
https://www.fda.gov/food/health-educators/listeria-food-safety-moms-be
