Can I Eat Hibachi in Pregnancy? A Safe Guide for Expectant Mums

Ah, hibachi—the sizzling, mouth-watering sound of your meal being prepared right in front of you, accompanied by the dramatic flips, twirls, and occasional flame (don’t worry, it’s all part of the experience). There’s something truly magical about enjoying a meal that’s cooked with such flair, and the best part is, it’s a meal you get to sit back and watch being made by a highly skilled chef. But, as an expectant mum, you’re probably wondering, “Is hibachi safe during pregnancy?” It’s a fair question, and one that’s likely to come up while you’re drooling over a plate of perfectly grilled vegetables, tender meat, and those delectable dipping sauces. So, let’s get into it—can you indulge in this delicious Japanese dining experience during your pregnancy, or is it one of those things you should pass on for now?

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about enjoying hibachi during pregnancy, with a side of antenatal advice (because we’re all about that balanced lifestyle, right?).

Hibachi: What’s on the Menu During Pregnancy?

For those who might not be entirely familiar with hibachi, let’s start with a quick rundown. Typically, hibachi refers to a type of Japanese cooking that involves grilling food on a high-heat iron griddle or a barbecue. While the word “hibachi” technically refers to the type of grill, in many places, it has become synonymous with the popular restaurant experience where chefs prepare your meal right at your table. The spread usually includes meats like chicken, beef, shrimp, and fish, as well as an assortment of veggies like zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and bean sprouts, all served with a side of rice or noodles.

Sounds delicious, right? But now, as a pregnant woman navigating the complex world of antenatal care, it’s crucial to assess whether it’s actually safe to eat hibachi while growing a tiny human. Let’s break it down in terms of food safety, your health, and your baby’s wellbeing.

Is Hibachi Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

The good news is that yes, you can enjoy hibachi during pregnancy—but with a few important precautions. Prenatal care comes with its own set of guidelines when it comes to food, so let’s take a deeper dive into the aspects of hibachi that might cause concern and how to navigate them safely.

1. Food Preparation: The Importance of Freshness

If there’s one thing that makes a pregnancy care expert cringe, it’s the idea of eating food that’s been sitting around for too long. And while hibachi restaurants typically serve up fresh, hot meals right in front of you, there are still a few things to consider. The freshness of the ingredients and how well the food is cooked are top priorities.

If you’re craving shrimp, beef, or chicken from the grill, ensure that it’s thoroughly cooked. Under-cooked meats, particularly poultry and seafood, are a no-go during pregnancy, as they may carry the risk of listeria, salmonella, or other foodborne illnesses. So, ask your chef to ensure that your protein is well-done—no rare beef or lightly seared shrimp, please! Your baby will thank you for it.

2. Risky Ingredients to Avoid

While most hibachi meals are safe for pregnant women, there are a few ingredients that may pose a risk during pregnancy. Let’s take a look at the potential troublemakers:

• Uncooked or undercooked seafood: Hibachi often includes shrimp, scallops, or fish that can sometimes be cooked medium-rare (we’re talking about sushi-grade fish here). When pregnant, it’s crucial to avoid eating any seafood that hasn’t been fully cooked. This includes shrimp that are only lightly grilled and fish that remains pink in the middle. Stick to well-cooked options instead.
• Unpasteurised sauces: Some hibachi restaurants might serve sauces made with raw eggs, such as hollandaise or a homemade dipping sauce that uses raw or lightly cooked eggs. While this is generally safe for non-pregnant people, raw eggs carry a small risk of salmonella, so make sure your sauce is pasteurised.
• Exotic meats: In some hibachi restaurants, chefs may offer a selection of meats beyond the usual chicken or beef, such as lamb or even ostrich. While these are typically fine, you should always double-check that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

3. The Heat Factor: Avoiding Foodborne Illness

One of the advantages of hibachi is that everything is cooked at incredibly high temperatures, which is excellent for antenatal care because it reduces the risk of foodborne illness. High heat kills bacteria, which is why hibachi meals cooked in front of you are usually safer than, say, something that’s been sitting in a warm oven for hours.

However, this doesn’t mean you can go rogue and order a medium-rare steak or shrimp that’s barely seared. Ask the chef to make sure everything is thoroughly cooked, and don’t hesitate to check before you dig in. The key here is making sure your meal is piping hot all the way through.

4. Watch Out for Cross-Contamination

Another concern when eating out while pregnant is cross-contamination. If the hibachi chef is handling raw meats, particularly seafood, make sure they’re using clean utensils and plates for cooked food to avoid contamination. This is especially important when ordering something like shrimp, which may be prepared at the same time as meat or poultry. If you’re concerned, politely ask the restaurant about their procedures for keeping raw foods separate from cooked ones. It’s better to ask than to risk your health or your baby’s health.

5. Hibachi and Your Baby’s Health

When eating hibachi during pregnancy, your baby’s health should always be top of mind. Fortunately, if you stick to properly cooked food, avoid risky ingredients like raw eggs or undercooked seafood, and ensure cleanliness, you should be good to go.

But remember, the general rule for pregnancy is to avoid anything that may compromise your immune system, which is naturally a bit weaker during this time. When in doubt, follow the guidelines for antenatal appointments and always consult with your midwife or doctor if you’re uncertain about the safety of a particular meal. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Other Considerations for Eating Out During Pregnancy

While hibachi can be a safe and fun option for dining out during pregnancy, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind as you indulge your cravings.

1. Watch the Sodium Content

Hibachi meals often come with a heavy dose of soy sauce, which can be high in sodium. Too much sodium can cause fluid retention and high blood pressure during pregnancy, which is something you’ll want to avoid. If you’re watching your salt intake, ask for your dish to be made with less soy sauce or skip it altogether. Some restaurants may even offer low-sodium versions of their sauces—just ask!

2. Healthy Sides for Your Bump

Hibachi meals typically come with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. If you’re hoping to get the most nutritional bang for your buck, ask for extra veggies in place of carbs. Antenatal nutrition recommendations often include plenty of vegetables for their vitamins and fibre, so adding more of them to your meal can help you feel great during pregnancy.

Final Thoughts: Hibachi, Yes or No?

So, can you eat hibachi during pregnancy? The answer is a resounding yes, but with a few important caveats. As long as you make sure your food is thoroughly cooked, avoid undercooked seafood or risky sauces, and ask about food safety practices in the restaurant, you should be able to safely enjoy a delicious hibachi meal while pregnant.

And remember, antenatal care is all about balance—so don’t be afraid to indulge every now and then (as long as it’s safe)! Keep your meals well-balanced with lots of vegetables and lean protein, and enjoy the experience of hibachi in a way that makes both you and your baby happy.