Can I Eat Queso Fresco During Pregnancy? What to Know
At a Glance:
❌ Unpasteurized Queso Fresco – Avoid
According to the U.S. FDA, unpasteurized queso fresco is linked to numerous listeriosis outbreaks. These versions should not be consumed during pregnancy under any circumstances.
✅ Pasteurized Queso Fresco – Safe
Queso fresco made with pasteurized milk and produced under hygienic conditions (i.e., commercially packaged) is generally safe to eat during pregnancy. Still, it must be properly refrigerated and consumed before the expiration date.
Understanding the Concerns
Queso fresco is a soft, crumbly cheese commonly used in Latin American cuisine. Its fresh, tangy flavor pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, salads, and more. But during pregnancy, food safety is crucial—especially when it comes to soft cheeses. So, can you eat queso fresco while pregnant? The answer depends entirely on how it’s made.
Soft cheeses like queso fresco are more likely to carry Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can survive in refrigerated foods and lead to listeriosis. Pregnant individuals are especially vulnerable, and listeriosis can result in:
Miscarriage
Stillbirth
Premature labor
Severe infection in newborns
Queso fresco is traditionally made from raw (unpasteurized) milk, especially in homemade or imported varieties, increasing the risk of contamination.
Assessing the Risks
Concern: Queso fresco is often made from unpasteurized milk, which can carry Listeria monocytogenes, a serious risk during pregnancy.
Risk Level: Unsafe if unpasteurized. Queso fresco made from pasteurized milk is generally safe when properly stored and handled.
Safe Practices: Always check labels for “pasteurized milk,” avoid homemade or street-sold versions unless confirmed safe, and consider cooking it to further reduce risk.
Making Safe Choices
If you want to include queso fresco in your pregnancy meals, follow these safety tips:
✅ Read the Label Carefully
Only buy queso fresco that clearly states it’s made with pasteurized milk. If there’s any uncertainty, skip it.
✅ Stick to Commercial Brands
Avoid homemade, street-sold, or imported queso fresco unless you can verify it’s pasteurized and produced in sanitary conditions.
✅ Cook It When in Doubt
Cooking queso fresco in hot dishes like enchiladas or baked casseroles can kill potential bacteria—even in pasteurized versions—providing extra safety.
A Pregnancy-Safe Recipe Idea
Vegetarian Enchiladas with Baked Queso Fresco
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup black beans
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
8 corn tortillas
1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
1/2 cup pasteurized queso fresco, crumbled
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté onion, pepper, and zucchini in olive oil until tender. Add beans and cumin; season to taste.
Fill tortillas with the mixture and roll into a baking dish.
Top with enchilada sauce and crumbled queso fresco.
Bake for 15–20 minutes or until heated through and cheese is slightly browned.
Conclusion: Queso Fresco and Pregnancy—Know Before You Eat
Queso fresco can be enjoyed safely during pregnancy—but only if it’s made with pasteurized milk. Unpasteurized versions carry a serious risk of listeriosis and should be avoided. When in doubt, opt for pasteurized, sealed products from trusted brands or cook the cheese into hot meals for added safety.
Always speak to your healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice during pregnancy. With the right precautions, you can enjoy the flavors you love while protecting your growing baby.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your pregnancy.
Source: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/avoid-queso-fresco-type-cheeses-if-youre-high-risk-groups
