Can Pregnant Women Eat Salami?

Moms-to-be often have a lot of questions about what they can and can’t eat during their pregnancies. While there are certainly some foods to avoid, salami is not always one of them. In fact, salami is a low-fat, high-protein food that can be a healthy addition to your pregnancy diet. So go ahead and enjoy a slice or two of salami – just make sure it’s fully cooked first.

But first, let me remind you the information in this article is only educational. Please always discuss your own dietary needs with your provider.

Before we start, I’m Hilary 👋 — The Pregnancy Nurse 👩‍⚕️. I have been a nurse since 1997 and I have 20 years of OB nursing experience, I am also the curly head behind Pulling Curls and The Online Prenatal Class for Couples. 🩺​ I’ve had thousands of patients in OB triage with all types of questions like this.

Plus, I feel like I just CRAVED deli meat during my pregnancy. So, that was annoying…. but what’s ok?

Oh, and before we get started grab my healthy eating during pregnancy resources right here — totally free:

What is Salami?

Salami is a type of cured sausage that is made from beef, pork, or turkey. It is usually dried and smoked, and can be eaten either cold or hot. Salami is a common ingredient in Italian cuisine, and is popular around the world. I most often find it on a charcuterie board or in a favorite sandwich.

Why Would Salami Be Problematic During Pregnancy?

There are a few reasons why physicians might caution against consuming salami during pregnancy. For one, salami is a type of cured sausage, which means it is often smoked and dried. This can lead to foodborne illnesses like salmonellosis, toxoplasmosis, and listeriosis.

Food that isn’t actually “cooked” (just dried) is a grey area for pegnancy (as I mentioned in my post on pregnancy & beef jerky)

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Is Salami Cooked?

Yes, salami is often cooked before it is eaten. However, if you are pregnant, it is best to avoid eating cold or “straight out of the package” deli meats, as they are more likely to cause foodborne illnesses like listeriosis.

Does All Salami contain nitrites?

No, not all salami contains nitrites. Some varieties of salami, like pepperoni, do not contain nitrates or nitrites. However, other types of salami, like Italian salami, often contain both nitrates and nitrites.

What do the studies show about salami during pregnancy?

There is no evidence that eating salami during pregnancy causes any problems. In fact, salami is a low-fat, high-protein food that can be a healthy addition to your pregnancy diet. However, it is best to avoid eating cold or “straight out of the package” deli meats, as they are more likely to cause foodborne illnesses like listeriosis. Overall, if you are concerned about eating salami during pregnancy, speak with your doctor to get their advice.

What is Listeriosis?

Listeriosis is a serious infection caused by a type of bacteria called Listeria. It can be deadly, especially in pregnant women and their newborn babies. Listeriosis can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm labor, as well as a number of other serious complications. If you are pregnant and think you might have listeriosis, it is important to contact your doctor immediately. There are treatments available that can help prevent serious complications. Overall, listeriosis is rare and salami is not generally considered to be a high-risk food. However, it is best to avoid eating cold or “straight out of the package” deli meats during pregnancy in order to reduce your risk of contracting this serious infection.​

I also have a whole post all about deli meats in pregnancy that dives a bit more into Listeria.

How to cook salami

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Place salami on baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes.

3. Enjoy!

I often combined with with some cheese for a delicious sandwich. The rule of thumb is that the meat should be “steaming” to make sure the baceteria is killed.

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What Other Foods Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?

Some other foods to avoid during pregnancy include unpasteurized milk and cheese, raw eggs, undercooked meat, and fish that is not fully cooked (or those containing mercury like Swordfish).

It is also important to avoid contact with cat feces, as toxoplasmosis can be contracted from contact with the parasite that causes the disease.

Can I eat other deli meats during pregnancy?

Yes, you can eat other types of deli meats during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked properly. Some other safe options include ham, turkey, and roast beef. Just like with salami, it is important to avoid eating cold or “straight out of the package” deli meats, as they are more likely to cause foodborne illnesses like listeriosis

Importance of a Healthy, Balanced Diet During Pregnancy

A healthy, balanced diet is important for pregnant women and their developing babies. Eating a variety of nutritious foods helps ensure that both the mother and baby get the nutrients they need. Pregnant women should make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein in their diets. They should also avoid processed foods, sugar-sweetened beverages, and excessive amounts of caffeine.

A pregnant woman’s diet has a direct impact on her baby’s development. Eating a healthy diet helps ensure that the baby grows and develops properly. Additionally, a nutritious diet can help reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is important for pregnant women to take the time to make healthy food choices and follow a balanced, nutrient-rich diet.​

What to do if you suspect you’ve eaten something unsafe during pregnancy?

If you think you might have eaten something unsafe during pregnancy, contact your doctor immediately. There are treatments available that can help prevent serious complications. Listeriosis is a serious infection, so it is important to seek medical attention if you think you might have contracted it.

Ok, now that your diet is on track, let’s get your brain on track too with a prenatal class. The good news is this one can be done with PLENTY of snacks on your couch.

• Takes just 3 hours
• Taught by a highly experienced L&D nurse
• Made for partners to get prepared with you.

Want to do a vibe check before diving into the whole thing with me? — check out my free labor pro tips. It’s your first step toward getting in the driver’s seat of your birth.