Can I eat caesar salad while pregnant?

Moderate

Restaurant Caesar with classic dressing: often contains raw egg — ask first. Bottled-dressing Caesar: safe.

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

What's safe

Caesar salad made with bottled commercial dressing (pasteurized eggs)
Caesar made with pasteurized eggs (some restaurants use these — ask)
'Caesar-style' salads without egg in the dressing

What to avoid

Classic restaurant Caesar prepared tableside with raw egg and raw anchovy
Homemade Caesar dressing with raw egg yolk

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].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
Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

How do I know if a restaurant's Caesar uses raw egg?

Ask. Most casual-chain restaurants use bottled pasteurized dressing. Higher-end and Italian restaurants often use the classic recipe. If the server can't confirm, substitute another salad.

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More foods to check

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

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.