Can I eat raw cookie dough while pregnant?

Avoid

Avoid — the CDC says raw flour AND raw eggs both carry pathogen risk (E. coli + salmonella).

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

What's safe

Commercially prepared 'edible cookie dough' labeled 'safe to eat raw' (uses heat-treated flour and pasteurized eggs)
Fully baked cookies

What to avoid

Homemade cookie dough with raw flour (even if egg-free)
Tasting batter, cake batter, brownie batter
Store-bought cookie dough not explicitly labeled 'safe to eat raw'

Sources & citations

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Say No to Raw Dough
CDC
Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Pregnancy nutrition: Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

I thought only the eggs were the problem in cookie dough?

The CDC updated its guidance in 2016 after multiple E. coli outbreaks traced to raw flour. Raw flour is NOT heat-treated by default and can carry E. coli and Salmonella. Even egg-free raw dough is unsafe.

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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.