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Can I eat swiss cheese while pregnant?

US pregnancy food safety guidance. Educational only.

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

What Guidelines Say

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According to FDA guidelines, Swiss cheese made from pasteurized milk is safe for pregnant women.

Source basis: FDA, ACOG, FoodSafety.gov

Read more details

Swiss cheese is classified as a hard or semi-hard cheese. According to the FDA and CDC, hard cheeses are generally safe during pregnancy because they have lower moisture content and higher acidity, which makes it difficult for bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes to survive and grow. In the United States, the vast majority of Swiss cheese sold in retail environments is produced using pasteurized milk, which involves heating the milk to at least 161°F (71.7°C) for 15 seconds to eliminate harmful pathogens. ACOG guidelines emphasize that pregnant individuals can safely consume hard cheeses, including Swiss, provided the label indicates the product is made from pasteurized milk. While raw milk cheeses are available, the aging process for hard Swiss varieties like Emmental creates an environment less hospitable to pathogens compared to soft, unpasteurized cheeses.

Avoid

Soft Cheeses Made from Unpasteurized Milk

Caution

Verify that all dairy products are made from pasteurized milk.

Safe Options

Hard Cheeses

Expert Pick

Processed Cheeses

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Updated: Sources: Fact or Fiction +5

Can you eat swiss cheese while pregnant?

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: According to FDA guidelines, Swiss cheese made from pasteurized milk is safe for pregnant women. Avoid: Soft Cheeses Made from Unpasteurized Milk Use caution: Verify that all dairy products are made from pasteurized milk. Safer option: Hard Cheeses Quick checks: Verify that all dairy products are made from pasteurized milk. Avoid soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk. Store cheeses at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth. Source basis: FDA, ACOG, FoodSafety.gov.

Safer Choices

Hard Cheeses

  • Cheddar
  • Parmesan
  • Swiss made from pasteurized milk

Processed Cheeses

  • American cheese
  • Other processed cheese products

Cottage Cheese

  • Generally made from pasteurized milk

Cream Cheese

  • Made from pasteurized milk

Yogurt

  • Regular and Greek yogurts made from pasteurized milk

Pasteurized Swiss Blocks

  • Commercial blocks labeled as made with pasteurized milk are considered low-risk and safe for consumption.

Processed Swiss Slices

  • Individually wrapped or pre-packaged slices undergo heat treatment and are formulated to prevent bacterial growth.

Cooked or Melted Swiss

  • Heating Swiss cheese until it is bubbling or reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) kills potential bacteria.

Hard Aged Swiss Varieties

  • Aged varieties like Emmental have very low moisture content, which naturally inhibits the growth of Listeria.

Risks & Limits

Soft Cheeses Made from Unpasteurized Milk

  • Feta
  • Brie
  • Camembert
  • Blue-veined cheeses
  • Queso fresco

Raw Milk Products

  • Unpasteurized milk
  • Products made from unpasteurized milk

Soft Cheeses with Rind

  • Potential contamination during processing

Unpasteurized (Raw) Swiss

  • Raw milk products carry a significantly higher risk of containing Listeria, Salmonella, and E. coli.

Deli-Sliced Swiss with Cross-Contamination

  • Cheese sliced on the same equipment as deli meats may be at risk for Listeria contamination if machines are not sanitized.

Key Points from Health Guidelines

Based on FDA, ACOG, FoodSafety.gov published guidance

  • 1
    Verify that all dairy products are made from pasteurized milk.
  • 2
    Avoid soft cheeses made from unpasteurized milk.
  • 3
    Store cheeses at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
  • 4
    Consume dairy products before their expiration dates.
  • 5
    Maintain proper hygiene when handling and preparing dairy products.
  • 6
    Be cautious with cheeses served in restaurants; inquire about pasteurization.
  • 7
    If uncertain about a product's safety, consult a healthcare provider.

Common Questions About Swiss Cheese While Pregnant

Can I eat swiss cheese while pregnant?
According to FDA guidelines, Swiss cheese made from pasteurized milk is safe for pregnant women.
Is Swiss cheese safe during the first trimester?
Yes, Swiss cheese made from pasteurized milk is safe throughout pregnancy, including the first trimester, as it poses a low risk of Listeria contamination.
How much Swiss cheese can I safely consume during pregnancy?
There are no specific limits on consuming pasteurized Swiss cheese during pregnancy; however, moderation is key to maintaining a balanced diet.
What are the risks of consuming unpasteurized Swiss cheese while pregnant?
Unpasteurized cheeses can harbor Listeria monocytogenes, leading to listeriosis, which can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
Are there safer alternatives to Swiss cheese if I'm concerned about Listeria?
Hard cheeses like cheddar and Parmesan made from pasteurized milk are safe alternatives, as their low moisture content inhibits bacterial growth.
How should I store Swiss cheese to ensure its safety during pregnancy?
Store Swiss cheese in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and consume it before the expiration date to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.

Related pregnancy safety topics

Use these deeper Doola Learn guides when the risk depends on ingredients, preparation, or serving style.

Raw and undercooked foods to avoid during pregnancy

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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.