Can I Eat Salmon Carpaccio During Pregnancy?
At a Glance:
⚠️ Concern: Salmon carpaccio is a raw fish dish, which can carry Listeria, Salmonella, and parasites like Anisakis.
🔥 Risk Level: High — Raw fish, including salmon carpaccio, is not considered safe during pregnancy.
✅ Safe Practices: Choose fully cooked salmon to enjoy its nutritional benefits without the risks.
Salmon carpaccio is prized for its silky texture and fresh flavor. Served thinly sliced and raw, it's a favorite on gourmet menus. But during pregnancy, it’s important to consider more than just taste—food safety becomes a top priority.
Let’s take a closer look at why salmon carpaccio is best avoided during pregnancy and how to enjoy salmon safely instead.
Why Raw Salmon Is Risky During Pregnancy
While salmon is often praised as one of the healthiest fish due to its omega-3 fatty acids, it becomes risky when served raw.
The main concerns with raw salmon:
Bacterial Infections
Raw salmon can harbor:
Listeria monocytogenes
Salmonella
Toxoplasma gondii
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.
FDA – Listeria & Pregnancy
Even fish prepared at reputable restaurants cannot be guaranteed free from these pathogens when served raw.
Parasites
Raw salmon can contain parasites like Anisakis, which may cause gastrointestinal issues and complications during pregnancy.
Cross-contamination Risk
Salmon carpaccio is often prepared alongside other raw foods, which increases the risk of cross-contamination.
Is Smoked or Cured Salmon a Safer Option?
Cold-smoked salmon (like lox) is still considered raw and should also be avoided during pregnancy. Hot-smoked salmon, which is fully cooked, can be a safer alternative if heated properly and eaten soon after opening.
Safe Ways to Enjoy Salmon While Pregnant
Salmon remains one of the best fish to eat when fully cooked. It’s rich in:
DHA and EPA (essential omega-3 fatty acids)
Protein
Vitamin D and B12
Tips for safely enjoying salmon:
Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
The flesh should be opaque and flake easily with a fork
Store leftovers promptly and reheat thoroughly before eating
The FDA recommends 2–3 servings (8–12 oz) per week of low-mercury, fully cooked fish like salmon during pregnancy.
Pregnancy-Safe Alternatives to Carpaccio
If you're craving the flavor or experience of salmon carpaccio, try:
Cooked and chilled salmon slices with olive oil and lemon
Baked salmon served cold over salad
Plant-based “carpaccio” using beets or avocado for texture and presentation
These swaps deliver satisfaction without the risks.
Conclusion: Skip Salmon Carpaccio While Pregnant
Though salmon carpaccio may be delicious, it’s best to avoid raw salmon during pregnancy due to the risk of listeria, parasites, and other harmful bacteria. Instead, enjoy salmon fully cooked to benefit from its many nutrients—without putting yourself or your baby at risk.
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.
References:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists:
FDA: Listeria from Food Safety for Moms to Be:
https://www.fda.gov/food/health-educators/listeria-food-safety-moms-be
