Can I eat cold cuts while pregnant?

Moderate

Same as deli turkey — reheat to 165 °F / steaming before eating.

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

What's safe

Cold cuts reheated to steaming (165 °F) — e.g. melted into a sandwich or panini
Uncured cold cuts heated through

What to avoid

Cold deli-sliced ham, salami, bologna straight from the fridge
Cold-cut sandwiches from cafés or delis (almost never pre-heated)
Charcuterie boards with cold cold cuts at room temperature

Sources & citations

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Frequently asked questions

Is dry-cured salami safe?

Shelf-stable dry-cured salami (salami that doesn't need refrigeration until opened) is generally lower-risk because of the curing process, but CDC guidance still recommends reheating. When in doubt, microwave for 30 seconds.

Track your meals with SafeBites

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More foods to check

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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.