Salami should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless it is heated until steaming hot. This is because salami is a type of deli meat that can carry the risk of contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacteria that causes listeriosis, which poses serious health risks to both the pregnant person and the baby. Heating salami sufficiently kills this bacteria, making it safer to consume.
Why Avoid Salami When Pregnant?
- Salami is a cured, fermented, and air-dried meat that can harbor Listeria bacteria.
- Pregnant women have a weakened immune system and are at a significantly higher risk of severe complications from listeriosis, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm labor, or illness in newborns.
- Other related risks include foodborne pathogens like salmonellosis and toxoplasmosis.
Safety Recommendations
- Avoid eating cold or uncooked deli meats like salami during pregnancy.
- If craving salami, consume it only when heated to steaming hot (internal temperature of 165°F or about 74°C).
- Cooked deli meats or salami in dishes like pizza or pasta are safer options.
Additional Notes
- The risk of getting listeriosis is relatively low but serious enough to warrant caution.
- Vacuum-sealed or packaged salami may have a lower risk compared to deli counter sliced meats but still should be heated before consumption.
- Some pregnant people do consume salami without issues, but medical experts advise against taking the risk.
In summary, eating salami cold or uncooked during pregnancy is not recommended due to listeria risk, but it can be eaten if thoroughly heated beforehand to kill harmful bacteria.
