Can I Eat Hollandaise Sauce During Pregnancy?
At a Glance:
⚠️ Concern: Traditional hollandaise sauce contains raw or undercooked eggs, posing a risk of Salmonella infection.
🔥 Risk Level: High if made with unpasteurized eggs or not fully cooked; Low if made with pasteurized eggs and cooked to a safe temperature.
✅ Safe Practices: Opt for store-bought hollandaise made with pasteurized eggs or cook homemade versions to at least 160°F (71°C). Avoid hollandaise in restaurants unless egg safety is confirmed.
Creamy, buttery, and tangy—Hollandaise sauce is a classic topping for eggs Benedict, steamed asparagus, and poached salmon. But if you're pregnant, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to indulge in this rich sauce. Let’s explore the safety considerations and how to enjoy hollandaise without worry during pregnancy.
Why Hollandaise Sauce Can Be Risky
Traditional hollandaise sauce is made with:
Egg yolks
Butter
Lemon juice or vinegar
The issue lies in the eggs. Classic hollandaise is prepared by gently whisking raw egg yolks over low heat (or a double boiler), which may not bring the eggs to a high enough temperature to kill Salmonella bacteria.
Consuming undercooked or raw eggs during pregnancy increases the risk of foodborne illness, particularly salmonellosis, which can cause:
Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
Fever and dehydration
Potential pregnancy complications in rare cases
Safe Alternatives: Pasteurized Eggs and Proper Cooking
The good news is, you can still enjoy hollandaise during pregnancy by following a few precautions:
✅ Use Pasteurized Eggs
Pasteurized eggs have been heat-treated to kill bacteria without cooking the egg. You can find them in the shell or as liquid eggs in cartons at most grocery stores.
✅ Cook to a Safe Temperature
When making homemade hollandaise, ensure the egg mixture reaches at least 160°F (71°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer for accuracy.
✅ Choose Store-Bought Options
Most store-bought hollandaise sauces are made with pasteurized eggs and go through commercial processing, making them safer for pregnant individuals. Just check the label for confirmation.
Restaurant Hollandaise: Proceed with Caution
Many restaurants still use traditional methods, which may not involve pasteurized eggs or full cooking. Unless the restaurant confirms their hollandaise is made with pasteurized eggs and cooked to a safe temperature, it’s best to avoid it altogether during pregnancy.
This includes popular dishes like:
Eggs Benedict
Steamed vegetables with hollandaise
Poached fish topped with hollandaise
Nutritional Profile: Is Hollandaise Healthy?
While tasty, hollandaise is high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and calories, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation even when safely prepared. Nutritional positives include:
Vitamin A and choline from egg yolks
Calcium from butter
Tips for Enjoying Hollandaise Safely During Pregnancy
✅ Use pasteurized eggs for homemade versions
✅ Ensure the sauce reaches 160°F (71°C)
✅ Choose store-bought, shelf-stable, or refrigerated brands labeled as made with pasteurized eggs
❌ Avoid hollandaise at restaurants unless safety can be confirmed
❌ Skip raw or lightly cooked egg-based sauces
Conclusion: Safe with the Right Precautions
Hollandaise sauce doesn’t have to be off the table during pregnancy—but traditional, raw-egg versions can carry real risks. Choose pasteurized eggs, cook your sauce thoroughly, or go with store-bought versions designed for safety. That way, you can enjoy the rich flavor of hollandaise with confidence.
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
