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Can I eat ice cream while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

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

What Guidelines Say

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Ice cream can pose Listeria risks during pregnancy; ensure it's made from pasteurized ingredients and properly handled.

Source basis: FDA, FoodSafety.gov

Read more details

Ice cream, when made from pasteurized milk and eggs, is generally safe during pregnancy. However, there have been instances where commercially produced ice cream was contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause listeriosis. Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than other healthy adults, which can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn. To minimize risk, it's important to consume ice cream from reputable sources that adhere to strict food safety standards. Additionally, homemade ice cream should be prepared using pasteurized ingredients to avoid potential contamination.

Avoid

Homemade ice cream made with raw or undercooked eggs

Caution

Verify that ice cream is made from pasteurized milk and eggs.

Safe Options

Commercially produced ice cream from reputable brands

Expert Pick

Homemade ice cream using pasteurized eggs and milk

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Updated: Sources: Listeria +5

Can you eat ice cream while pregnant?

According to FDA, FoodSafety.gov guidance, the quick answer is: Ice cream can pose Listeria risks during pregnancy; ensure it's made from pasteurized ingredients and properly handled. Avoid: Homemade ice cream made with raw or undercooked eggs Use caution: Verify that ice cream is made from pasteurized milk and eggs. Safer option: Commercially produced ice cream from reputable brands Quick checks: Verify that ice cream is made from pasteurized milk and eggs. Avoid homemade ice cream containing raw or undercooked eggs. Choose commercially produced ice cream from reputable brands. Source basis: FDA, FoodSafety.gov.

Safer Choices

Commercially produced ice cream from reputable brands

  • Typically made with pasteurized ingredients
  • Undergo strict quality control

Homemade ice cream using pasteurized eggs and milk

  • Ensures harmful bacteria are eliminated during pasteurization

Egg-free ice cream recipes

  • Eliminates risk associated with raw or undercooked eggs

Frozen yogurt made from pasteurized milk

  • Offers similar texture and taste to ice cream
  • Potentially lower fat content

Non-dairy frozen desserts made from pasteurized plant-based milks

  • Suitable for those avoiding dairy
  • Still enjoy a frozen treat

Risks & Limits

Homemade ice cream made with raw or undercooked eggs

  • Poses risk of Salmonella infection

Soft-serve ice cream from machines with uncertain hygiene practices

  • Machines can harbor Listeria if not properly cleaned

Ice cream made from unpasteurized milk

  • Increases risk of exposure to harmful bacteria

Products from brands with recent recalls due to contamination

  • Stay informed about food recalls to avoid contaminated products

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA, FoodSafety.gov published guidance

  • 1
    Verify that ice cream is made from pasteurized milk and eggs.
  • 2
    Avoid homemade ice cream containing raw or undercooked eggs.
  • 3
    Choose commercially produced ice cream from reputable brands.
  • 4
    Be cautious with soft-serve ice cream from machines with uncertain hygiene.
  • 5
    Stay informed about recent ice cream recalls and avoid affected products.
  • 6
    Store ice cream at or below 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
  • 7
    Consume ice cream before its expiration date for optimal safety.

Common Questions About ice cream While Pregnant

Can I eat ice cream while pregnant?
Ice cream can pose Listeria risks during pregnancy; ensure it's made from pasteurized ingredients and properly handled.
Is it safe to eat ice cream during the first trimester of pregnancy?
Yes, consuming ice cream made from pasteurized ingredients is generally safe during the first trimester. However, it's important to ensure the product is from a reputable source and has been stored properly to minimize any risk of contamination.
How often can I eat ice cream while pregnant?
There are no specific guidelines on the frequency of ice cream consumption during pregnancy. Moderation is key, considering nutritional balance and overall calorie intake. Always ensure the ice cream is made from pasteurized ingredients and stored correctly.
What are the main risks of eating ice cream during pregnancy?
The primary risk is contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, which can lead to listeriosis. This infection is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, potentially causing miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
Are there safer alternatives to traditional ice cream during pregnancy?
Yes, options include frozen yogurt made from pasteurized milk, egg-free ice cream recipes, and non-dairy frozen desserts made from pasteurized plant-based milks. These alternatives can reduce certain risks associated with traditional ice cream.
How can I safely prepare homemade ice cream while pregnant?
Use pasteurized eggs and milk to eliminate harmful bacteria. Alternatively, opt for egg-free recipes or use pasteurized egg products. Ensure all equipment is clean, and store the ice cream at or below 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacterial growth.

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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.