Can I eat feta cheese while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

What Guidelines Say

Feta cheese made from unpasteurized milk poses a Listeria risk during pregnancy; pasteurized versions are safer.

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FDA and ACOG guidelines state that soft cheeses like feta are safe during pregnancy only if produced using pasteurized milk. The primary concern is Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, which is linked to miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm labor. Unlike many other bacteria, Listeria can grow at refrigeration temperatures. While most commercial feta in the United States is pasteurized, imported or artisanal varieties may use raw milk. Guidelines emphasize verifying the 'pasteurized' status on ingredient labels. If the pasteurization status is unknown, the cheese is considered safe only if heated until steaming hot (165°F), which effectively kills the bacteria. Additionally, feta from open deli counters or salad bars is often flagged for cross-contamination risks, even if the cheese itself was pasteurized.

Avoid

Unpasteurized Feta Cheese

Caution

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

Safe Options

Pasteurized Feta Cheese

Expert Pick

Hard Cheeses

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Updated: Jan 2026 Sources: Food Safety for Moms-to-Be At-a-Glance | FDA +6

Safer Choices

Pasteurized Feta Cheese

Opt for feta explicitly labeled as made from pasteurized milk to reduce the risk of Listeria infection.

Hard Cheeses

Varieties like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan are generally considered safe during pregnancy due to their low moisture content, which inhibits bacterial growth.

Processed Cheese Products

Items such as cream cheese and cottage cheese are typically made from pasteurized milk and are safe options.

Pasteurized Feta

Commercial feta labeled 'made with pasteurized milk' is considered safe for consumption.

Cooked Feta

Heating feta to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) kills Listeria and other harmful pathogens.

Pre-packaged Feta

Sealed, factory-packaged containers are safer than open-air deli containers due to reduced cross-contamination risks.

Baked Dishes

Feta used in baked pasta, casseroles, or pastries is safe if the dish reaches steaming hot temperatures.

Risks & Limits

Unpasteurized Feta Cheese

Avoid feta made from raw milk due to the risk of Listeria contamination.

Soft Cheeses from Unpasteurized Milk

Cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and blue-veined varieties should be avoided unless labeled as made with pasteurized milk.

Homemade Soft Cheeses

Avoid consuming homemade soft cheeses, as they may not undergo proper pasteurization processes.

Unpasteurized (Raw) Feta

Raw milk feta carries a significantly higher risk of harboring Listeria monocytogenes and should be avoided unless cooked.

Open Salad Bars and Delis

These environments increase the risk of cross-contamination from other raw foods or shared serving utensils.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA, Mayo Clinic published guidance

1

Verify that feta cheese is labeled as made from pasteurized milk.
2

Avoid consuming soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk.
3

Store cheese at or below 40°F (4°C) to inhibit bacterial growth.
4

Consume perishable cheeses promptly and adhere to expiration dates.
5

Maintain proper hygiene when handling and preparing cheese.
6

Be cautious with cheeses purchased from farmers' markets or artisanal producers; ensure they are pasteurized.
7

Consult a healthcare provider if uncertain about the safety of specific cheeses.

Common Questions

Is it safe to eat feta cheese during the first trimester?

Yes, consuming feta cheese made from pasteurized milk is considered safe during the first trimester. It's essential to ensure the cheese is pasteurized to minimize the risk of Listeria infection, which can be particularly harmful during early pregnancy.

How much pasteurized feta cheese is safe to consume during pregnancy?

There are no specific quantity restrictions for pasteurized feta cheese during pregnancy. However, it's advisable to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

What are the main risks of consuming unpasteurized feta cheese while pregnant?

Unpasteurized feta cheese can contain Listeria monocytogenes, leading to listeriosis. This infection can result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe illness in newborns. Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely than the general population to get listeriosis. ([fda.gov](https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/what-you-need-know-about-preventing-listeria-infections?utm_source=openai))

Are there safer alternatives to feta cheese during pregnancy?

Yes, hard cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan are generally safe options. Additionally, pasteurized soft cheeses such as cream cheese and cottage cheese are considered safe during pregnancy.

How can I ensure the feta cheese I purchase is safe during pregnancy?

Always check the product label to confirm that the feta cheese is made from pasteurized milk. If the label does not specify, it's safer to avoid the product. When dining out, inquire about the type of cheese used in dishes to ensure they are made with pasteurized milk.

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