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Can I eat oysters while breastfeeding?

US breastfeeding food safety guidance. Educational only.

What Guidelines Say

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According to FDA guidelines, consuming fully cooked oysters while breastfeeding is considered safe and beneficial.

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According to FDA and CDC guidelines, oysters are classified as a 'Best Choice' for breastfeeding individuals due to their low mercury content and high levels of essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, caution is advised regarding preparation methods. Raw or undercooked oysters can harbor pathogens such as Vibrio vulnificus and Norovirus. While these specific bacteria are not known to pass through breast milk to the infant, a severe maternal infection can lead to dehydration and systemic illness, which may negatively impact milk supply and the mother's ability to care for the infant. Guidelines recommend cooking all shellfish to an internal temperature of 145°F to ensure safety. Consuming 8 to 12 ounces of low-mercury seafood per week is generally supported by ACOG to promote maternal health and infant neurodevelopment.

Avoid

Raw Oysters

Caution

Consume 2 to 3 servings (8 to 12 ounces) of low-mercury seafood weekly.

Safe Options

Fully Cooked Oysters

Expert Pick

Baked Oysters

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Updated: Jan 2026 Sources: FDA Issues Revised “Advice about Eating Fish for Women Who Are or Might Become Pregnant, Breastfeeding Mothers, and Young Children” | FDA +5

Safer Choices

Fully Cooked Oysters

  • Ensure oysters are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) until their shells open, indicating they are done.

Baked Oysters

  • Bake oysters in a preheated oven at 450°F (232°C) for 10 minutes.

Grilled Oysters

  • Place oysters on a preheated grill at medium-high heat for 5 minutes, ensuring they reach the safe internal temperature.

Steamed Oysters

  • Steam oysters for 4 to 9 minutes after water reaches a full boil.

Fried Oysters

  • Deep-fry oysters in oil heated to 375°F (190°C) for at least 3 minutes.

Thoroughly cooked oysters

  • Oysters boiled, fried, or baked until the internal temperature reaches 145°F
  • Preparation ensures the destruction of Vibrio and other foodborne pathogens

Canned or bottled oysters

  • Commercially processed canned oysters are heat-treated during the canning process
  • These are shelf-stable and considered safe from live bacterial contaminants

Oyster stews and soups

  • Dishes where oysters are simmered until the flesh is firm and opaque
  • Provides a safe way to ingest high levels of Vitamin B12 and zinc

Risks & Limits

Raw Oysters

  • Avoid consuming raw oysters due to the risk of Vibrio infections and other foodborne illnesses.

Smoked Oysters

  • Limit consumption of smoked oysters unless they are canned or shelf-stable, as refrigerated smoked seafood can harbor Listeria.

Oysters from Unregulated Waters

  • Avoid oysters harvested from areas with unknown water quality to reduce exposure to contaminants.

Raw oysters on the half shell

  • Raw preparations carry a high risk of Vibrio vulnificus and Norovirus
  • Infections can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and dehydration

Lightly steamed oysters

  • Oysters that do not reach 145°F may still harbor active bacteria
  • Shells that fail to open during cooking indicate the meat may not be fully cooked

Key Points from Health Guidelines

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

  • 1
    Consume 2 to 3 servings (8 to 12 ounces) of low-mercury seafood weekly.
  • 2
    Ensure oysters are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • 3
    Avoid raw or undercooked oysters.
  • 4
    Limit smoked oysters unless canned or shelf-stable.
  • 5
    Purchase oysters from reputable sources.
  • 6
    Store oysters at proper refrigeration temperatures.
  • 7
    Practice good hygiene when handling and preparing oysters.

Common Questions

Can I eat oysters during the first trimester of pregnancy?
Yes, consuming fully cooked oysters during the first trimester is considered safe and provides essential nutrients. However, raw or undercooked oysters should be avoided due to the risk of foodborne illnesses.
How often can I eat oysters while breastfeeding?
The FDA recommends that breastfeeding women consume 2 to 3 servings (8 to 12 ounces) of low-mercury seafood, including oysters, per week.
What are the main risks of eating raw oysters during breastfeeding?
Raw oysters can harbor harmful bacteria like Vibrio, posing a risk of foodborne illnesses that can affect both mother and baby.
Are there safer alternatives to raw oysters?
Yes, fully cooked oysters, such as baked, grilled, steamed, or fried, are safe alternatives that eliminate harmful pathogens.
What is the safest way to prepare oysters at home?
Ensure oysters are cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) by baking, grilling, steaming, or frying, and avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils for raw and cooked foods.

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