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Can I eat soft cheese while breastfeeding?

US breastfeeding food safety guidance. Educational only.

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

What Guidelines Say

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Soft cheese is safe during breastfeeding if made from pasteurized milk.

Source basis: CDC, FDA

Read more details

You can eat soft cheese while breastfeeding as long as it's pasteurized. Unpasteurized soft cheeses can carry harmful bacteria, so always check the labels.

Caution

Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like certain Brie and Camembert.

Safe Options

Choose soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk for safety.

Expert Pick

Store soft cheeses properly in the refrigerator below 40°F (4°C).

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Updated: Sources: cdc.gov +2

Can you eat soft cheese while breastfeeding?

Pasteurized dairy is the safer pregnancy choice. Check the label, keep it refrigerated, and be more careful with homemade, unpasteurized, or poorly stored dairy. Doola's evidence summary: Soft cheese is safe during breastfeeding if made from pasteurized milk. Use caution: Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like certain Brie and Camembert. Safer option: Choose soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk for safety. Quick checks: Choose soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk for safety. Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like certain Brie and Camembert. Store soft cheeses properly in the refrigerator below 40°F (4°C). Source basis: CDC, FDA.

Safer Choices

Safer approach

  • Choose soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk for safety.
  • Store soft cheeses properly in the refrigerator below 40°F (4°C).

Risks & Limits

Check or limit first

  • Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like certain Brie and Camembert.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on CDC, FDA published guidance

  • 1
    Choose soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk for safety.
  • 2
    Avoid unpasteurized cheeses like certain Brie and Camembert.
  • 3
    Store soft cheeses properly in the refrigerator below 40°F (4°C).

Common Questions About Soft Cheese While Breastfeeding

Can I eat soft cheese while breastfeeding?
Soft cheese is safe during breastfeeding if made from pasteurized milk.
What is the main pregnancy concern with Soft Cheese?
You can eat soft cheese while breastfeeding as long as it's pasteurized. Unpasteurized soft cheeses can carry harmful bacteria, so always check the labels.
Are there amount limits for Soft Cheese while breastfeeding?
Safe storage temperature for soft cheeses: 40°F (4°C)

Related pregnancy safety topics

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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 breastfeeding journey.