Can I eat blue cheese while pregnant?

Avoid

Avoid unless clearly pasteurized — listeria risk.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Example, OB-GYN, MD Last reviewed: January 15, 2025Editorial process

What's safe

Pasteurized blue cheese fully cooked into a dish (blue cheese sauce heated to 165 °F)

What to avoid

Unpasteurized Roquefort, Stilton, Gorgonzola, Danish blue
Cold blue cheese crumbles on a salad or steak
Blue cheese dressing with raw cheese (even if pasteurized — always check)

Sources & citations

Every verdict on this page is grounded in an authoritative source. If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Listeria and Pregnancy (FAQ)
ACOG
Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

Why is blue cheese specifically risky?

The mold-ripening process and high moisture content make it easier for Listeria monocytogenes to grow. ACOG and the CDC specifically call out blue-veined cheeses as higher-risk during pregnancy.

Track your meals with SafeBites

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More foods to check

Sushi Tuna Salmon Shrimp Smoked Salmon Swordfish Mackerel Raw Oysters Brie Feta Goat Cheese Unpasteurized Milk

This page is informational only and is not medical advice. Always consult your OB-GYN, midwife, or registered dietitian about your specific pregnancy nutrition questions — particularly if you have gestational diabetes, food allergies, or other complications.