Which Italian Foods Should I Avoid in Pregnancy? A Guide to Safe Eating for Expecting Mums

Ah, Italian food – the land of pizza, pasta, cheese, and wine. The mere thought of a perfectly golden pizza crust with gooey mozzarella, a steaming plate of spaghetti topped with bolognese, or a luscious tiramisu to round it all off sends your taste buds into a frenzy. But wait, you’re pregnant, and that changes a few things. As much as you may crave those delizioso dishes, some Italian foods might not be your best friend during pregnancy. But don’t worry, expectant mamas – with a bit of careful choosing, you can still enjoy plenty of Italian flavours while keeping your antenatal nutrition on point.

Pregnant and Craving Pizza? Let’s Talk About Antenatal Eating First

So, you’re in the mood for pizza – who wouldn’t be? That crisp, warm crust, topped with fresh ingredients and smothered in melted cheese. But before you devour that slice like it’s your last meal on earth, let’s talk about antenatal care and why some foods need to be avoided during pregnancy. After all, you want your baby to be as healthy as that perfect pizza dough, don’t you? Italian food can be incredibly comforting, but during pregnancy, we need to be cautious about certain ingredients and preparation methods. This isn’t to say you need to say “arrivederci” to all your Italian favourites, but there are a few things you’ll want to keep on the back burner (literally).

The Italian Foods You Can Safely Devour

Before we dive into the list of Italian foods to steer clear of, let’s first reassure you – there are plenty of Italian delicacies that are not only delicious but perfectly safe during pregnancy. Yes, you can still enjoy your fair share of carbs and carbs and more carbs.

• Pizza (Well-cooked) – You can still have your pizza, just make sure it’s cooked thoroughly. We’re talking about that golden crust with toppings of your choice, from spinach and mushrooms to margherita. Just avoid raw toppings like salami or parma ham (we’ll get to that in a minute).
• Pasta – Spaghetti, lasagne, penne, ravioli – it’s all on the table. Just make sure it’s topped with a sauce that’s fully cooked, such as tomato sauce or a meat ragu.
• Gelato – The Italian version of ice cream, often made with fresh ingredients. It’s a great option, just make sure it’s from a reputable place where it’s stored and handled properly. But, as in all good Italian movies, the plot thickens. Let’s talk about those dishes you might want to avoid while you’re expecting.

1. Uncooked or Undercooked Meat: The Raw Pizza Dilemma

Okay, imagine this: You’re sitting at a quaint Italian restaurant, the soft music of violins playing in the background, a glass of red wine (that you can’t drink, obviously) on the table, and your waiter places a steaming pizza in front of you. And there it is – that gorgeous pizza topped with uncooked prosciutto and fresh mozzarella. It’s tempting, right?

• The Problem with Raw Meat: Whether it’s uncooked prosciutto, salami, or any cold cuts on your pizza, eating uncooked meats during pregnancy can increase the risk of toxoplasmosis or listeria, two infections that can harm your baby.
• Solution: Don’t let that pizza haunt you! Opt for well-cooked pizza toppings, such as roasted chicken, fully-cooked sausage, or veggies. And remember, always ask for your meat to be cooked thoroughly if you’re not sure.

2. Soft Cheese: A Delicious, But Potentially Risky Option

Italian cheese – mozzarella, ricotta, gorgonzola, mascarpone – is the stuff of dreams. But when you’re pregnant, those dreamy cheeses can sometimes become a nightmare if they’re made from unpasteurised milk.

• The Problem with Unpasteurised Cheese: Cheese made from unpasteurised milk can harbour listeria, a bacteria that can pose serious risks to your pregnancy. Gorgonzola and other blue cheeses, as well as soft cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella, fall into this category if they haven’t been pasteurised.
• Solution: Stick to pasteurised cheese options like Parmesan, grana padano, and hard cheeses. If you’re enjoying a creamy lasagne or pizza, ask if the cheese is pasteurised to be on the safe side.

3. Raw Eggs in Tiramisu – A Sweet Danger

Oh, the joys of tiramisu – layers of coffee-soaked sponge, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s one of Italy’s most beloved desserts. But, here’s the kicker – traditional tiramisu contains raw eggs, which can potentially expose you to salmonella.

• The Problem with Raw Eggs: Raw eggs are, unfortunately, a bit of a pregnancy hazard. They can carry harmful bacteria that could lead to foodborne illnesses, which are best avoided during pregnancy.
• Solution: Luckily, you can find egg-free tiramisu recipes or versions at bakeries that use pasteurised eggs, so you can indulge safely. Just be sure to ask or double-check before you dive in!

4. Pâté and Liver – Italian Pâté, But Not for Pregnant Mums

Ah, pâté – another French-inspired delicacy often found in Italian antipasti platters. Whether it’s chicken liver pâté or a beef pâté, this rich, creamy spread may look tempting, but it’s one Italian food to steer clear of when you’re expecting.

• The Problem with Pâté and Liver: Liver contains very high amounts of vitamin A, and consuming too much of it can lead to toxicity, which can increase the risk of birth defects.
• Solution: While you might have to skip the liver pâté for now, other antipasti options like marinated olives, roasted vegetables, or bruschetta are perfectly safe and just as tasty.

5. Wine, Wine, and More Wine – A Love Affair on Hold

As much as Italian wine is practically a religion (we get it, it’s fantastic), alcohol should be avoided during pregnancy due to the potential risk of fetal alcohol syndrome and other developmental issues for your baby.

• The Problem with Wine: You’ve probably heard it before – alcohol and pregnancy don’t mix. Even if the Italians swear by a glass of wine with every meal, it’s important to skip it for now.
• Solution: No, you can’t have the gorgeous glass of red Chianti just yet, but you can still enjoy sparkling water, fruit juices, or a lovely mocktail. They’ll make you feel just as fabulous, we promise.

6. Unpasteurised Italian Gelato – Cold, Creamy, But a Potential Risk

Gelato – Italy’s answer to ice cream, but with a richer, creamier texture. Sounds like a dream, right? But before you indulge in that scoop of pistachio or stracciatella, there’s something you should know.

• The Problem with Unpasteurised Gelato: Some artisanal gelato shops may use unpasteurised milk or even raw eggs in their recipes, both of which can carry a risk of infection.
• Solution: Opt for gelato that has been properly made with pasteurised milk, or stick with sorbets – those fruity, refreshing treats that are usually made without any risky ingredients.

Prenatal Care and Enjoying Italian Cuisine Safely

Don’t worry, you don’t have to completely wave goodbye to Italian food during pregnancy. With a bit of knowledge and planning, you can still enjoy the best of Italy’s culinary delights without compromising your antenatal care. As always, just make sure to choose well-cooked options, steer clear of raw or undercooked ingredients, and, of course, enjoy those gorgeous Italian dishes with a side of relaxation. And remember, there are plenty of ways to indulge in Italian food while keeping your baby safe and healthy. So, next time you find yourself longing for a plate of pasta or a cheesy pizza, you’ll know exactly what to order, and what to skip, for a happy and healthy pregnancy.