Can I eat seafood while pregnant?
US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.
What Guidelines Say
Consuming 8-12 ounces of low-mercury, cooked seafood weekly is beneficial during pregnancy.
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According to FDA and ACOG guidelines, consuming seafood during pregnancy is both safe and beneficial when selecting low-mercury options and ensuring proper cooking. Seafood provides essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, iron, and zinc, which support fetal brain development and overall growth. The FDA recommends that pregnant individuals eat 8 to 12 ounces (approximately 2 to 3 servings) of a variety of low-mercury fish per week. It's important to avoid high-mercury fish, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, as mercury can harm the developing nervous system of the fetus. Additionally, all seafood should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to eliminate harmful bacteria and parasites.
High-Mercury Fish
Consume 8-12 ounces of low-mercury seafood weekly.
Salmon
Shrimp
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Safer Choices
Salmon
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Cook to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
Shrimp
- Low in mercury
- Ensure they turn opaque and reach 145°F (63°C) when cooked
Tilapia
- Mild-flavored and low in mercury
- Cook until flesh is opaque and flakes easily
Catfish
- Good source of protein
- Cook to 145°F (63°C) to ensure safety
Canned Light Tuna
- Lower in mercury than albacore
- Limit to 8 ounces (two servings) per week
Risks & Limits
High-Mercury Fish
- Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish due to high mercury levels
Raw Seafood
- Avoid sushi, sashimi, raw oysters, and ceviche to prevent bacterial and parasitic infections
Refrigerated Smoked Seafood
- Avoid unless it's cooked in a dish to 165°F (74°C) to eliminate Listeria risk
Albacore (White) Tuna
- Limit to 6 ounces (one serving) per week due to higher mercury content
Key Points from Health Guidelines
Based on Mayo Clinic, FDA published guidance
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1Consume 8-12 ounces of low-mercury seafood weekly.
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2Avoid high-mercury fish like shark and swordfish.
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3Ensure all seafood is cooked to 145°F (63°C).
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4Avoid raw seafood preparations.
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5Limit albacore tuna to 6 ounces per week.
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6Check local advisories for fish caught in local waters.
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7Reheat smoked seafood to 165°F (74°C) if consuming.
Common Questions About seafood in Pregnant
Can I eat seafood while pregnant?
Is it safe to eat seafood during the first trimester?
How much seafood can I eat per week while pregnant?
What are the risks of consuming high-mercury fish during pregnancy?
Are there safe alternatives to raw sushi during pregnancy?
How should seafood be prepared to ensure safety during pregnancy?
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for advice specific to your pregnancy. Doola AI aggregates data from public health guidelines to provide these summaries.