Can I eat tuna while pregnant?

Moderate

Canned light tuna: safe, up to 2–3 servings/week. Albacore (white) tuna: limit to 1 serving/week. Bigeye, bluefin: avoid.

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

What's safe

Canned light tuna (skipjack) — FDA 'Best Choices' list, 2–3 servings/week (4 oz each)
Fully cooked tuna steak from a restaurant, moderate portions

What to avoid

Bigeye tuna — on FDA 'Choices to Avoid' list (high mercury)
Raw tuna (sashimi, poke, tartare)
More than 1 serving/week of albacore (white) or yellowfin tuna

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 If you spot outdated guidance, email [email protected].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
Healthy Eating During Pregnancy (FAQ)
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
Pregnancy and fish: What's safe to eat?
Mayo Clinic

Frequently asked questions

How much canned tuna can I eat while pregnant?

Canned light tuna (skipjack): up to 2–3 servings per week, 4 oz each. Canned albacore (white) tuna: limit to 1 serving per week due to higher mercury.

Is tuna salad from a deli safe?

Generally yes if it is fresh and properly refrigerated. Avoid refrigerated tuna salad that has been sitting more than 24 hours (listeria risk).

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.