Can I eat runny eggs while pregnant?

Avoid

Cook eggs until both whites and yolks are firm, or use pasteurized eggs. Avoid runny yolks.

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

What's safe

Fully cooked eggs — firm whites AND firm yolks (scrambled hard, hard-boiled, fried over-hard)
Dishes made with pasteurized shell eggs or pasteurized liquid eggs (look for 'pasteurized' on the carton)
Baked goods cooked through (quiche, frittata, cake — internal 160 °F)

What to avoid

Sunny-side up or over-easy eggs (runny yolk)
Soft-boiled eggs
Homemade Hollandaise, Béarnaise, Caesar dressing, mayonnaise made with raw eggs
Homemade eggnog (with raw eggs)
Tiramisu and mousse made with raw eggs

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].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
Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat Caesar dressing during pregnancy?

Bottled Caesar dressing is made with pasteurized eggs and is safe. Restaurant Caesar made from scratch often uses raw eggs — ask before ordering.

Track your meals with SafeBites

Get a personalized pregnancy meal plan using only foods you can tolerate. Free to start — no credit card.

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.