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Can I eat octopus while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

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

What Guidelines Say

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According to FDA guidelines, consuming fully cooked octopus is generally safe during pregnancy; avoid raw preparations due to infection risks.

Source basis: FDA, ACOG, Mayo Clinic, FoodSafety.gov

Read more details

Octopus is classified by the FDA and EPA as a Best Choice seafood due to its low mercury content. Guidelines recommend consuming 8 to 12 ounces, or 2 to 3 servings, of low-mercury seafood per week during pregnancy to support fetal development with omega-3 fatty acids and protein. However, safety depends entirely on preparation. Raw or undercooked octopus poses risks of foodborne illnesses from pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes, Vibrio, and various parasites. To eliminate these risks, guidelines specify that seafood must be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). While octopus is nutrient-dense, providing protein, vitamin B12, and iron, it is also relatively high in cholesterol, which may be a consideration for some dietary patterns. Consuming thoroughly cooked octopus is considered a safe way to meet nutritional goals during pregnancy.

Avoid

Raw or Undercooked Octopus

Caution

Cook all seafood, including octopus, to an internal temperature of 145°F.

Safe Options

Fully Cooked Octopus

Expert Pick

Low-Mercury Seafood

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Updated: Sources: Dietary Advice Before and During Pregnancy | FDA +6

Can you eat octopus while pregnant?

According to FDA, ACOG, Mayo Clinic, FoodSafety.gov guidance, the quick answer is: According to FDA guidelines, consuming fully cooked octopus is generally safe during pregnancy; avoid raw preparations due to infection risks. Avoid: Raw or Undercooked Octopus Use caution: Cook all seafood, including octopus, to an internal temperature of 145°F. Safer option: Fully Cooked Octopus Quick checks: Cook all seafood, including octopus, to an internal temperature of 145°F. Avoid raw or undercooked seafood dishes. Consume a variety of low-mercury seafood options. Source basis: FDA, ACOG, Mayo Clinic, FoodSafety.gov.

Safer Choices

Fully Cooked Octopus

  • Ensure octopus is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to eliminate harmful pathogens.

Low-Mercury Seafood

  • Incorporate seafood options like salmon, shrimp, and tilapia, which are low in mercury and safe when cooked properly.

Canned Seafood

  • Canned light tuna and other canned seafood are generally low in mercury and can be consumed in moderation.

Grilled or Roasted Octopus

  • Cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145°F ensures pathogens are destroyed
  • Flesh should be opaque and firm throughout the thickest part of the tentacle

Boiled or Braised Octopus

  • Thoroughly heating octopus in simmering liquid until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 145°F
  • Commonly used in salads or stews where the meat is fully heat-treated

Canned or Jarred Octopus

  • Commercially canned seafood is heat-processed to be shelf-stable
  • This process effectively eliminates bacterial and parasitic risks present in raw seafood

Fried Octopus

  • Deep-frying or pan-searing until the internal temperature reaches 145°F
  • Ensuring the batter or coating is fully cooked and the seafood is steaming hot

Risks & Limits

Raw or Undercooked Octopus

  • Avoid sushi, sashimi, or other dishes containing raw octopus due to the risk of bacterial and parasitic infections.

High-Mercury Fish

  • Limit consumption of fish known to have high mercury levels, such as king mackerel, shark, and swordfish, to reduce potential harm to fetal development.

Raw Octopus (Sashimi or Sushi)

  • Raw preparations carry a high risk of parasitic infections like Anisakis
  • Potential for bacterial contamination from Vibrio or Listeria which can harm the fetus

Cold Marinated or Pickled Octopus

  • Acidic marinades like those used in ceviche do not reliably kill all bacteria or parasites
  • Only safe if the octopus was fully cooked to 145°F before being marinated and chilled

Dried or Smoked Octopus

  • Cold-smoking or traditional drying methods may not reach temperatures high enough to ensure safety
  • Guidelines suggest avoiding refrigerated smoked seafood unless it is part of a cooked dish

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA, ACOG, Mayo Clinic, FoodSafety.gov published guidance

  • 1
    Cook all seafood, including octopus, to an internal temperature of 145°F.
  • 2
    Avoid raw or undercooked seafood dishes.
  • 3
    Consume a variety of low-mercury seafood options.
  • 4
    Limit intake of high-mercury fish species.
  • 5
    Ensure proper storage and handling of seafood to prevent contamination.
  • 6
    Verify octopus is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F
  • 7
    Limit total seafood intake to 8-12 ounces per week

Common Questions About Octopus While Pregnant

Can I eat octopus while pregnant?
According to FDA guidelines, consuming fully cooked octopus is generally safe during pregnancy; avoid raw preparations due to infection risks.
Is it safe to eat octopus during the first trimester?
Yes, consuming fully cooked octopus during the first trimester is considered safe and can provide beneficial nutrients. Ensure it is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F to eliminate potential pathogens.
How often can I eat octopus while pregnant?
The FDA recommends that pregnant women consume 8 to 12 ounces of a variety of low-mercury seafood per week. Including fully cooked octopus within this guideline is acceptable.
What are the risks of eating raw octopus during pregnancy?
Consuming raw or undercooked octopus increases the risk of infections from bacteria and parasites, which can be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus.
Are there safer alternatives to octopus during pregnancy?
Yes, fully cooked seafood options such as salmon, shrimp, and tilapia are considered safe and provide essential nutrients during pregnancy.
What is the best way to prepare octopus to ensure it's safe during pregnancy?
To ensure safety, cook octopus to an internal temperature of 145°F until it becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork.

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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.