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Can I drink eggnog while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

Evidence checked by Doola Research Team Source reviewed May 2026 · Based on FDA, FoodSafety.gov, CDC published guidance

What Guidelines Say

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Choose pasteurized, alcohol-free eggnog during pregnancy and avoid homemade eggnog made with raw eggs or added alcohol.

Source basis: FDA, FoodSafety.gov, CDC

Read more details

Eggnog has two common pregnancy concerns: raw or lightly cooked eggs and alcohol. FDA pregnancy food-safety guidance specifically lists eggnog and other egg-fortified beverages that are not thoroughly cooked among foods to avoid because raw eggs can contain Salmonella. CDC guidance also says there is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy. Store-bought eggnog is usually pasteurized, but check the label and choose alcohol-free versions.

Avoid

Homemade raw eggnog or alcoholic eggnog

Caution

Restaurant or party eggnog with unclear ingredients

Safe Options

Pasteurized alcohol-free eggnog

Expert Pick

Sealed store-bought alcohol-free eggnog kept refrigerated

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Updated: Sources: FDA: Dairy and Eggs +2

Can you drink eggnog while pregnant?

According to FDA, FoodSafety.gov, CDC guidance, the quick answer is: Choose pasteurized, alcohol-free eggnog during pregnancy and avoid homemade eggnog made with raw eggs or added alcohol. Avoid: Homemade raw eggnog or alcoholic eggnog Use caution: Restaurant or party eggnog with unclear ingredients Safer option: Pasteurized alcohol-free eggnog Quick checks: Choose pasteurized eggnog. Confirm it is alcohol-free. Keep eggnog refrigerated and follow the use-by date. Source basis: FDA, FoodSafety.gov, CDC.

Safer Choices

Pasteurized store-bought eggnog

  • Choose sealed commercial eggnog labeled pasteurized and keep it refrigerated.

Alcohol-free eggnog

  • Pick eggnog with no rum, brandy, bourbon, wine, or liqueur added.

Cooked homemade eggnog

  • If making it at home, use pasteurized eggs or cook the egg mixture thoroughly before chilling.

Risks & Limits

Homemade raw eggnog

  • Traditional raw eggnog can contain uncooked eggs, which raises Salmonella risk.

Alcoholic eggnog

  • Avoid eggnog with added alcohol during pregnancy.

Party punch bowls

  • Skip eggnog that has been sitting out or where ingredients are unclear.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA, FoodSafety.gov, CDC published guidance

  • 1
    Choose pasteurized eggnog.
  • 2
    Confirm it is alcohol-free.
  • 3
    Keep eggnog refrigerated and follow the use-by date.
  • 4
    Avoid homemade raw eggnog unless pasteurized eggs or thorough cooking are used.

Common Questions About eggnog While Pregnant

Can I drink eggnog while pregnant?
Choose pasteurized, alcohol-free eggnog during pregnancy and avoid homemade eggnog made with raw eggs or added alcohol.
Is store-bought eggnog safe while pregnant?
Usually it is the safer option because commercial eggnog is commonly pasteurized, but choose alcohol-free products and follow refrigeration instructions.
Can I drink homemade eggnog during pregnancy?
Only if it is made with pasteurized eggs or the egg mixture is thoroughly cooked and no alcohol is added. Avoid traditional raw eggnog.
Is a small amount of alcohol in eggnog okay while pregnant?
CDC guidance says there is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy, so choose alcohol-free eggnog.

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References & Guidelines

Evidence checked by Doola Research Team and source reviewed against public health guidance. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your pregnancy.