Can I eat shellfish while pregnant?

Moderate

Fully cooked shellfish — shrimp, crab, mussels, clams, scallops — is safe and a good protein source. Raw shellfish carries Vibrio and listeria risk.

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

What's safe

Cooked shrimp — steamed, grilled, stir-fried, or shrimp cocktail (pre-cooked and chilled is fine)
Cooked crab — Dungeness, king, or snow crab steamed or boiled
Cooked mussels and clams — steamed open (discard any that remain closed)
Seared, baked, or poached scallops
Lobster — boiled or steamed

What to avoid

Raw oysters on the half-shell
Raw clams or mussels
Ceviche 'cooked' with acid only — lime juice does not kill pathogens
Shellfish from informal vendors or of unknown provenance

Sources & citations

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].

Advice About Eating Fish (FDA / EPA joint advisory)
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Frequently asked questions

What if a mussel or clam doesn't open after steaming?

Discard it. Mussels and clams that remain closed after cooking were likely dead before the heat step and can harbour concentrated bacteria. Never force them open.

Is imitation crab (surimi) safe during pregnancy?

Yes. Surimi is made from fully cooked, processed fish. It is one of the safest sushi fillings for pregnancy and the standard ingredient in California rolls.

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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.