Can I Eat Chorizo During Pregnancy?

Aug 5

At a Glance:

⚠️ Concern: Some types of chorizo are cured and not fully cooked, which may harbor Listeria, Salmonella, or Toxoplasma gondii.
🔥 Risk Level: High risk if eaten raw or cold. Safer when thoroughly cooked.
✅ Safe Practices: Choose fresh, fully cooked chorizo, or cook cured chorizo until steaming hot before eating.

Chorizo, with its bold seasoning and rich flavor, is a staple in many kitchens. But when you're pregnant, food safety becomes a top priority—and chorizo is one of those foods that depends heavily on how it's prepared.

There are two main types of chorizo: Spanish-style (dry-cured) and Mexican-style (raw/fresh). Both can be enjoyed safely during pregnancy if properly cooked—but eating them cold or undercooked can pose serious risks.

Why Chorizo Can Be Risky During Pregnancy

Certain types of chorizo—particularly dry-cured varieties like Spanish chorizo—may be fermented and air-dried but not cooked. Even though curing preserves meat, it doesn’t eliminate dangerous pathogens.

Meanwhile, Mexican chorizo is usually sold raw and needs to be fully cooked before eating. If undercooked, it may carry bacteria or parasites harmful to pregnancy.

Common pathogens include:

Listeria monocytogenes
Toxoplasma gondii
Salmonella
E. coli

Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than other healthy adults. Because immune systems are altered during pregnancy, it is harder for pregnant women to fight off infections.
Source: FDA

Safe Ways to Enjoy Chorizo While Pregnant

You don't need to skip chorizo altogether—just be careful with the type and preparation.

✅ Safe practices:

Cook Mexican-style chorizo thoroughly in a pan until browned and no pink remains.
Cook Spanish-style chorizo slices until steaming hot before eating (internal temperature reaches at least 160°F (71°C))
Use in baked dishes, omelets, stews, or pasta sauces.

⚠️ Avoid:

Eating cured chorizo cold (e.g., on charcuterie boards).
Sampling room-temp meats from open trays or delis.
Homemade chorizo unless you're sure it has been fully cooked.

Chorizo-Based Dishes to Try Safely

Chorizo and egg breakfast burritos
Chorizo pizza (baked until steaming)
Chorizo chili or stew
Baked stuffed peppers with chorizo and rice

These meals are flavorful, filling, and safe—when cooked thoroughly.

Conclusion: Enjoy Chorizo—Just Cook It Well

Whether you're craving spicy Mexican chorizo or a smoky Spanish variety, chorizo can be enjoyed during pregnancy—as long as it’s fully cooked. Avoid raw or cold cured versions, and always ensure your chorizo is heated through to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

When in doubt, heat it up and savor the flavor safely.

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.

Reference: https://www.fda.gov/food/health-educators/listeria-food-safety-moms-be