Can You Go to Nando’s When Pregnant? The Safe Guide to Eating Out During Pregnancy

Ah, Nando’s—the fiery flame-grilled chicken joint that has taken the UK (and beyond) by storm. Whether it’s your go-to dinner spot with friends, a cheeky post-pregnancy craving, or your favourite place to savour that peri-peri sauce, one question remains: Can I still go to Nando’s when I’m pregnant?

You’ve probably got a thousand things on your mind during pregnancy, from antenatal care to making sure you’re eating the right things. But when it comes to eating out at places like Nando’s, you might find yourself wondering if it’s a wise choice for your growing baby bump. The good news is, you don’t have to miss out on those tangy, spicy flavours just because you’re expecting. But like all things in pregnancy, moderation is key. Let’s break it down.

Can I Go to Nando’s and Still Be Safe for Baby?

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it does come with a series of dietary decisions that make eating out a tad more complicated than before. You’re probably wondering, “Is Nando’s okay for me and my baby?” The short answer is: Yes, but with some precautions.

Let’s take a closer look at how your Nando’s visit can still be a deliciously safe one.

The Risks of Pregnancy Eating: What Should I Look Out For?

Pregnancy introduces a whole new level of caution when it comes to food. There are certain foods to avoid during pregnancy to make sure your baby stays safe and healthy. The most common concerns include foodborne illnesses, like listeria, salmonella, and toxoplasmosis, as well as the safe levels of caffeine and spices. But does that mean you have to cancel your regular antenatal yoga session and skip your peri-peri chicken forever? Absolutely not—just remember to make informed choices!

1. The Spice Factor: Can I Handle the Heat?

Nando’s is famous for its peri-peri sauces, which range from mild to “oh-my-god, my mouth is on fire.” If you’ve been craving something spicy, it’s likely because your body has a mind of its own during pregnancy. However, there’s a fine line between indulging in a spicy meal and overdoing it.

Spicy foods and pregnancy: Pregnancy can sometimes make you more sensitive to spicy foods. While there’s no harm in enjoying a bit of spice, you may want to avoid going overboard if you’re prone to heartburn or acid reflux (which are quite common during pregnancy). So, if you’re planning to get the extra hot peri-peri sauce, just know that it might not be as enjoyable when you’re dealing with the fiery aftermath.

Tip: If you’re unsure how spicy your tummy can handle right now, go for something on the mild or medium side. You can always ask for a side of extra peri-peri sauce to add more spice if you feel like it!

2. What’s in the Chicken?

While Nando’s chicken is flame-grilled to perfection, there are still some things to consider, especially with undercooked meats or certain food preparations. During pregnancy, it’s important to avoid undercooked meat due to the risk of toxoplasmosis or salmonella. Luckily, Nando’s tends to serve their chicken fully cooked, so you’re generally safe here.

Safe bet: Go for fully cooked options, such as grilled chicken, rather than dishes that could be served rare or undercooked. Avoid any chicken that looks undercooked or pink inside (even if that juicy chicken looks incredibly tempting).

3. The Side Dishes: What’s on the Plate?

While your chicken might be perfectly safe, what about the sides? The great thing about Nando’s is the variety of options available. There are delicious sides like chips, grilled vegetables, and rice that are completely pregnancy-safe. However, you might want to double-check the ingredients in dips or salads. For example:

Salads: If a salad contains any unpasteurised cheeses (like goat’s cheese or blue cheese), avoid those. These cheeses can carry harmful bacteria like listeria, which is risky during pregnancy.

Dips: Some of Nando’s dips, such as garlic mayo or hummus, may contain raw eggs. Though rare, raw eggs could carry a salmonella risk, so check whether they’re made with pasteurised eggs or opt for something else, like salsa or guacamole.

The Hidden Pregnancy Risks: Be Aware of Unpasteurised Ingredients

When you’re sitting in a Nando’s booth, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the meal. However, during pregnancy, there are some hidden risks you should watch out for in certain foods:

Soft cheeses: You know how Nando’s serves some fantastic side dishes, including salads with cheese? Check if any soft cheeses are present in your salad (especially unpasteurised varieties). Stick with hard cheeses if you’re unsure, as these are usually pasteurised and safe for pregnant women.

Undercooked eggs: Be cautious of any dishes with undercooked eggs, like certain sauces or toppings. These can pose a risk to both you and your baby due to potential salmonella contamination. If you spot eggs on your dish, just ask if they’ve been properly cooked or opt for a different choice.

Can I Get My Nando’s Fix with Antenatal Care in Mind?

The answer to this depends on what you choose and how you’re feeling that day. In the end, it’s about balance and moderation.

Antenatal care includes listening to your body, so if you’re feeling adventurous, go for that spicy peri-peri chicken and enjoy the flavours of your craving! But if your stomach is more on the sensitive side, opt for something milder.

Remember, pregnancy is about self-care, and that doesn’t just mean prenatal vitamins and antenatal support—it also means having the freedom to enjoy your favourite foods (within reason!). So, go ahead and enjoy your Nando’s, but just keep a few key considerations in mind.

Should I Avoid Nando’s for the Entire Pregnancy?

Not at all! Nando’s offers a wide variety of options that are pregnancy-safe if you make a few mindful choices. The trick is sticking to well-cooked meat, avoiding risky ingredients like raw eggs or unpasteurised cheese, and managing your spice levels according to how your body feels at that moment. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you while keeping in mind your antenatal care and pregnancy health.

The Verdict: Go for It (But with Caution!)

Can you go to Nando’s when pregnant? Absolutely! It’s all about enjoying a tasty meal while still being mindful of your health and your baby’s well-being. Go for those flame-grilled chicken options, pick safe sides, and most importantly, listen to your body. Your antenatal yoga might feel even better after a delicious, satisfying meal from Nando’s.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a seat, enjoy that chicken, and remember to keep your pregnancy care in check. That peri-peri craving isn’t going anywhere, and neither should you!