Food safety is important for everyone. But, there are a couple of important considerations when you are pregnant. Your immune system changes during pregnancy making you and your unborn child at higher risk for a foodborne illness.
Pathogens which are a Potential Risk during Pregnancy
PATHOGEN: Listeria Monocytogenes
WHAT IS IT?
A bacterium found in many foods which can grow at refrigerator temperatures.
Can cause miscarriage, serious illness or even death of a newborn.
FOODS TO AVOID
- unpasteurized (raw) milk
- luncheon meats
- store made ham salad, chicken salad and seafood salad
- uncooked hot dogs
PATHOGEN: Toxoplasma Gondo
WHAT IS IT?
A parasite found in dirty cat litter boxes.
Can cause hearing loss, mental retardation or blindness in an unborn child.
FOODS TO AVOID
- Accidental contact of cat feces and then touching food
- Raw or undercooked meat
During pregnancy make a special effort to protect yourself and your unborn child by selecting and preparing food carefully and following good hand washing procedures. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
