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Can I eat brie cheese while breastfeeding?

US breastfeeding food safety guidance. Educational only.

What Guidelines Say

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Pasteurized Brie is considered safe during breastfeeding; guidelines indicate Listeria is not transmitted to infants via breast milk.

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According to the CDC and FDA, breastfeeding individuals can safely consume soft cheeses like Brie, provided they are made from pasteurized milk. During pregnancy, soft cheeses are restricted due to the risk of Listeria monocytogenes crossing the placenta; however, there is no evidence that Listeria is transmitted through breast milk to a nursing infant. The primary concern for breastfeeding mothers shifts from fetal risk to maternal health. Maternal foodborne illness from unpasteurized dairy can lead to symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may cause dehydration or a temporary decrease in milk supply. In the United States, FDA regulations require most soft cheeses sold in interstate commerce to be pasteurized or aged for at least 60 days. Confirming the 'pasteurized' label ensures the lowest risk of bacterial contamination for the mother.

Avoid

Unpasteurized Brie

Caution

Verify that Brie cheese is labeled as made from pasteurized milk.

Safe Options

Pasteurized Brie

Expert Pick

Hard Cheeses

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Updated: Jan 2026 Sources: Food Safety for Moms-to-Be At-a-Glance | FDA +3

Safer Choices

Pasteurized Brie

  • Always select Brie cheese labeled as made from pasteurized milk to ensure safety.
  • Most commercial Brie sold in the United States is made with pasteurized milk, which significantly reduces the risk of pathogens like Listeria and Salmonella.

Hard Cheeses

  • Varieties like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan are typically made from pasteurized milk and have lower moisture content, reducing bacterial growth risks.

Processed Cheeses

  • Products such as American cheese are usually made from pasteurized ingredients and are considered safe.

Baked Brie

  • Heating Brie until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) kills most harmful bacteria and is a safe preparation method.

Hard Cheese Alternatives

  • Hard cheeses such as Cheddar, Parmesan, or Swiss have lower moisture content and are naturally more resistant to bacterial growth than soft cheeses.

Domestic Soft Cheeses

  • US-produced soft cheeses are subject to strict FDA safety standards regarding pasteurization and aging, making them generally safer than imported raw varieties.

Risks & Limits

Unpasteurized Brie

  • Avoid Brie cheese made from raw or unpasteurized milk due to the risk of *Listeria* contamination.

Homemade Soft Cheeses

  • Unless you can confirm the use of pasteurized milk, it's best to avoid homemade soft cheeses.

Unpasteurized (Raw) Brie

  • Raw milk cheeses carry a higher risk of harboring pathogens that cause maternal illness, which can lead to severe dehydration and fatigue.

Improperly Stored Cheese

  • Soft cheeses left at room temperature for more than two hours allow for rapid bacterial multiplication and should be discarded.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA published guidance

  • 1
    Verify that Brie cheese is labeled as made from pasteurized milk.
  • 2
    Store Brie cheese at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
  • 3
    Consume Brie cheese before its expiration date.
  • 4
    Avoid consuming Brie cheese that has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
  • 5
    Be cautious of Brie cheese included in pre-packaged foods; check labels for pasteurization status.
  • 6
    Verify the product label specifically states 'made with pasteurized milk.'
  • 7
    Maintain refrigerator temperature at 40°F (4°C) or below for safe storage.

Common Questions

Is Brie cheese safe to eat during the first trimester of pregnancy?
Brie cheese made from pasteurized milk is considered safe during pregnancy, including the first trimester. It's essential to ensure the cheese is pasteurized to avoid the risk of *Listeria* infection. ([fda.gov](https://www.fda.gov/food/people-risk-foodborne-illness/food-safety-moms-be-glance?utm_source=openai))
How often can I eat Brie cheese while breastfeeding?
There are no specific restrictions on the frequency of consuming pasteurized Brie cheese while breastfeeding. Moderation is key, as with all foods, to maintain a balanced diet.
What are the risks of consuming unpasteurized Brie cheese?
Unpasteurized Brie cheese can harbor *Listeria monocytogenes*, a bacterium that causes listeriosis. This infection can lead to severe health issues, especially in pregnant women, newborns, and individuals with weakened immune systems. ([fda.gov](https://www.fda.gov/food/people-risk-foodborne-illness/food-safety-moms-be-glance?utm_source=openai))
Are there safer alternatives to Brie cheese during breastfeeding?
Yes, hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan are generally safe options, as they are typically made from pasteurized milk and have lower moisture content, reducing bacterial growth risks.
How can I ensure the Brie cheese I purchase is safe?
Always check the product label to confirm that the Brie cheese is made from pasteurized milk. Additionally, purchase cheese from reputable sources and ensure proper storage to maintain safety.

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