Can I Eat Runny Eggs During Pregnancy?
At a Glance:
⚠️ Concern: Runny eggs have undercooked yolks or whites, which may carry Salmonella, posing a risk to pregnant individuals.
🔥 Risk Level: High — Undercooked eggs are not safe during pregnancy unless made with pasteurized eggs.
✅ Safe Practices: Only eat eggs that are cooked until both yolks and whites are firm, or use pasteurized eggs in soft-yolk recipes.
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a perfectly soft-boiled egg or a slice of toast topped with a golden, runny yolk. But if you’re pregnant, that silky yolk could come with risks. Runny eggs—while delicious—may not be safe during pregnancy unless proper precautions are taken.
Here’s what you need to know about runny eggs, Salmonella risk, and how to enjoy eggs safely while pregnant.
Why Runny Eggs Are Risky During Pregnancy
Runny eggs are considered undercooked because the yolks (and sometimes the whites) are not heated to a temperature high enough to kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella.
Pregnant women are at higher risk of severe illness from Salmonella infections due to changes in the immune system. This can lead to dehydration, hospitalization, and rarely, complications for the baby.
Even small exposures can result in serious consequences, which is why health agencies like the CDC and FDA advise pregnant individuals to avoid runny or undercooked eggs unless pasteurized.
What Is Considered a Runny Egg?
A runny egg is any egg where the yolk or white remains partially liquid. This includes:
Soft-boiled eggs
Poached eggs
Over-easy or sunny-side-up eggs
Scrambled eggs that are slightly wet or underdone
Eggs used in sauces like hollandaise or carbonara
Unless made with pasteurized eggs, these preparations are not recommended during pregnancy.
Safe Ways to Eat Eggs While Pregnant
Eggs are a great source of protein, choline, iron, and vitamin D—all important for your baby’s development. But safety is key.
✅ Egg safety guidelines during pregnancy:
Cook eggs to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C)
Whites should be completely set, and yolks should be firm
Use pasteurized eggs if making soft yolks, dressings, or sauces that won’t be fully cooked
Most store-bought eggs are not pasteurized, so check the label carefully if you plan to consume them runny.
What About Restaurant Eggs?
Restaurant and café egg dishes often feature soft or runny yolks. To be safe:
Ask if they use pasteurized eggs
Request eggs to be cooked well-done or hard
Avoid dishes like soft scrambled eggs, eggs Benedict, or undercooked omelets unless you’re sure pasteurized eggs were used
Safer Egg Recipes During Pregnancy
Craving eggs? Here are some pregnancy-safe ideas:
Hard-boiled eggs
Firmly scrambled eggs
Fully cooked omelets with veggies and cheese
Egg muffins or casseroles baked to 160°F
Egg salad made from hard-boiled eggs
These options deliver flavor and nutrition without the food safety risk.
Conclusion: Skip Runny Eggs Unless Pasteurized
While runny eggs may be a breakfast favorite, they are not safe during pregnancy unless made with pasteurized eggs. To protect yourself and your baby, stick with fully cooked eggs or use pasteurized eggs in recipes that call for soft or undercooked yolks.
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
