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Can I eat smoked salmon while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

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

What Guidelines Say

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FDA guidelines advise against consuming refrigerated smoked salmon during pregnancy due to Listeria risk.

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

Read more details

According to the FDA and CDC, refrigerated smoked seafood, including salmon, is associated with an increased risk of Listeria monocytogenes. This bacterium can survive and grow at refrigerator temperatures and may lead to listeriosis, a serious infection that poses severe risks during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, or preterm labor. Guidelines categorize smoked salmon as safe only if it is shelf-stable (such as canned or in vacuum-sealed pouches stored at room temperature) or if it is heated to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) before consumption. Cold-smoked salmon, often labeled as lox or nova-style, is typically cured and smoked at temperatures that do not eliminate pathogens. While salmon is a low-mercury fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, the preparation method is the primary safety factor. Health authorities recommend avoiding refrigerated smoked varieties unless they are thoroughly cooked in a dish.

Avoid

Refrigerated Smoked Salmon

Caution

Avoid refrigerated smoked salmon unless cooked to 165°F (74°C).

Safe Options

Cooked Dishes with Smoked Salmon

Expert Pick

Canned or Shelf-Stable Smoked Salmon

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Updated: Sources: Food Safety for Moms-to-Be At-a-Glance | FDA +4

Can you eat smoked salmon while pregnant?

Use caution: chilled ready-to-eat seafood can carry listeria risk during pregnancy. Cooked seafood is usually the safer choice when you want the same protein without the same handling risk. Doola's evidence summary: FDA guidelines advise against consuming refrigerated smoked salmon during pregnancy due to Listeria risk. Avoid: Refrigerated Smoked Salmon Use caution: Avoid refrigerated smoked salmon unless cooked to 165°F (74°C). Safer option: Cooked Dishes with Smoked Salmon Quick checks: Avoid refrigerated smoked salmon unless cooked to 165°F (74°C). Choose canned or shelf-stable smoked salmon products. Ensure all seafood is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Source basis: FDA, FoodSafety.gov, ACOG, Mayo Clinic.

Safer Choices

Cooked Dishes with Smoked Salmon

  • Incorporate smoked salmon into casseroles or other dishes that are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Canned or Shelf-Stable Smoked Salmon

  • These products are processed to be safe at room temperature and are considered safe for pregnant women.

Fully Cooked Seafood

  • Opt for seafood that has been thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).

Shelf-stable smoked salmon

  • Canned salmon or vacuum-sealed pouches stored at room temperature are heat-treated to be pathogen-free.

Cooked smoked salmon

  • Heating refrigerated smoked salmon to an internal temperature of 145°F kills potential Listeria bacteria.

Fresh baked or grilled salmon

  • Fresh salmon cooked to 145°F provides the same nutritional benefits without the processing risks of smoked varieties.

Smoked salmon in hot dishes

  • Incorporating smoked salmon into quiches, casseroles, or pasta sauces that reach boiling temperatures ensures safety.

Risks & Limits

Refrigerated Smoked Salmon

  • Avoid consuming refrigerated smoked salmon unless it is part of a cooked dish that reaches 165°F (74°C).

Raw or Undercooked Seafood

  • Avoid raw or undercooked seafood, including sushi and sashimi, as they may contain harmful bacteria or parasites.

Refrigerated cold-smoked salmon

  • Products labeled as lox, nova-style, or kippered are not cooked to temperatures high enough to kill Listeria.

Open deli-counter smoked fish

  • Increased risk of cross-contamination and unknown storage durations make these higher-risk options for pregnant women.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

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

  • 1
    Avoid refrigerated smoked salmon unless cooked to 165°F (74°C).
  • 2
    Choose canned or shelf-stable smoked salmon products.
  • 3
    Ensure all seafood is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
  • 4
    Avoid raw or undercooked seafood.
  • 5
    Reheat hot dogs and deli meats until steaming hot before consumption.
  • 6
    Wash hands and cooking surfaces thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
  • 7
    Consult healthcare providers for personalized dietary advice during pregnancy.

Common Questions About smoked salmon While Pregnant

Can I eat smoked salmon while pregnant?
FDA guidelines advise against consuming refrigerated smoked salmon during pregnancy due to Listeria risk.
Is it safe to eat smoked salmon during the first trimester?
The FDA advises against consuming refrigerated smoked salmon during any stage of pregnancy due to the risk of Listeria infection, which can be particularly harmful during the first trimester.
How much smoked salmon is safe to eat during pregnancy?
Refrigerated smoked salmon should be avoided during pregnancy unless it is part of a cooked dish that reaches 165°F (74°C). Canned or shelf-stable smoked salmon can be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
What are the main risks of eating smoked salmon while pregnant?
The primary risk is listeriosis, an infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, which can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
Are there safer alternatives to smoked salmon during pregnancy?
Yes, alternatives include canned or shelf-stable smoked salmon, or incorporating smoked salmon into thoroughly cooked dishes. Fully cooked seafood options are also safe.
How should smoked salmon be prepared to be safe during pregnancy?
If using smoked salmon, ensure it is part of a dish cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate potential Listeria bacteria.

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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.