Craving sushi during pregnancy? You’re probably wondering if it’s safe to indulge in your favorite rolls and nigiri. It’s a common concern for many expecting moms looking to balance cravings with caution. The great news is that you can still enjoy sushi, but it’s all about making smart, safe choices. Let’s walk through how you can do just that.
Understand the Risks
The primary concern with consuming sushi during pregnancy is the risk of foodborne illnesses, such as listeriosis and salmonella, which are particularly dangerous for pregnant women and their developing babies. The risk is mainly associated with raw or undercooked fish that can harbor parasites and bacteria. So here are some tips on how to approach your choice of sushi during pregnancy.
Safe Sushi Choices
- Fully Cooked Sushi: Opt for sushi rolls that contain fully cooked ingredients. Tempura rolls, for example, use battered and deep-fried seafood and vegetables, which are safe to eat. Other options include rolls with cooked crab, shrimp, or eel.
- Vegetarian Sushi: Vegetarian rolls, which might include ingredients like avocado, cucumber, bell peppers, and carrots, are completely safe and can be equally satisfying.
- Sushi with Cooked Egg: Tamago sushi, which is made with sweet, cooked egg, is another safe and delicious choice.