Can I Eat Deviled Eggs During Pregnancy?
At a Glance:
⚠️ Concern: Deviled eggs are made with hard-boiled eggs, which are safe when properly cooked and stored.
🔥 Risk Level: Low — Deviled eggs are safe during pregnancy if made with fully cooked eggs and pasteurized mayonnaise.
✅ Safe Practices: Use hard-boiled eggs (fully cooked yolks), pasteurized ingredients, and store chilled at or below 40°F (4°C).
Deviled eggs are a favorite party snack and a delicious way to enjoy protein-rich eggs. But if you’re pregnant, you may be wondering if they’re still safe to eat. The good news? Deviled eggs are safe during pregnancy—as long as they’re made and stored properly.
Here’s what to look out for when enjoying deviled eggs while expecting.
Why Deviled Eggs Can Be Safe During Pregnancy
Deviled eggs are made from hard-boiled eggs, meaning the egg white and yolk are fully cooked. This eliminates the risk of Salmonella, which is the primary concern when consuming undercooked eggs during pregnancy.
Additionally, most deviled egg recipes use:
Mayonnaise (which should be pasteurized if store-bought)
Mustard, spices, and vinegar – all pregnancy-safe ingredients
So when prepared correctly, deviled eggs are a nutritious and safe snack.
What to Watch Out For
While deviled eggs are typically safe, a few key safety tips should be followed:
✅ Safe ingredients:
Use fully hard-boiled eggs (yolks should not be soft or runny)
Use pasteurized mayonnaise (most store-bought brands are safe; check the label)
⚠️ Storage & freshness tips:
Keep deviled eggs refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C)
Discard if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Consume within 2-3 days if stored properly in the fridge
If you’re at a party, potluck, or restaurant, avoid deviled eggs that have been sitting out unrefrigerated, as bacteria like Listeria can grow even in fully cooked foods.
Pregnant individuals are more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, and even properly cooked food can become unsafe if not stored correctly.
Are Deviled Eggs Healthy During Pregnancy?
Yes! When made with clean, fresh ingredients, deviled eggs provide:
High-quality protein
Choline – essential for fetal brain development
Healthy fats (from yolk and mayo)
Vitamin B12 and selenium
To reduce added fat or sodium, you can tweak the recipe by:
Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo
Adding herbs and spices for flavor
Skipping added salt or using mustard and vinegar for tang
Conclusion: Deviled Eggs Are Safe When Prepared Properly
Deviled eggs are a tasty, protein-rich snack that’s safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as the eggs are fully cooked, the mayo is pasteurized, and the dish is stored properly. Be cautious with deviled eggs at parties or buffets, and when in doubt—make your own at home!
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.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/pregnant-women.html
