can you eat pepperoni pizza when pregnant

Yes, pregnant women can eat pepperoni pizza as long as the pepperoni is fully cooked. Pepperoni is a cured meat that may carry harmful bacteria like Listeria and Toxoplasma if eaten raw or cold, which pose risks during pregnancy. When the pepperoni on pizza is baked at high heat, it reaches a safe temperature that kills these bacteria, making it safe to consume. However, cold or raw pepperoni should be avoided, and leftovers should be reheated thoroughly before eating. Nutritionally, pepperoni is high in saturated fat and sodium, so it is best consumed in moderation during pregnancy to avoid complications like high blood pressure. Opting for well- cooked pepperoni or alternatives like turkey pepperoni with lower fat and sodium content is recommended. In summary, cooked pepperoni on hot pizza is safe during pregnancy, but raw, cold, or undercooked pepperoni is not safe due to bacterial risks and should be avoided.