Can I Eat Cheese During Pregnancy?
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Medically reviewed by
Baby Circle Medical Board
Reviewed on 18 July 2026
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Hard & pasteurised — yes; soft mould-ripened — avoidEvidence-based & doctor-reviewed
Most cheeses are safe, but avoid soft, mould-ripened and unpasteurised cheeses (brie, camembert, blue cheese) unless cooked until steaming, as they can carry listeria. Hard and pasteurised cheeses are fine.
Safe cheeses
- Hard cheeses — cheddar, parmesan
- Pasteurised paneer, processed cheese, mozzarella
- Pasteurised cottage cheese, cream cheese
Cheeses to avoid (unless cooked)
Avoid soft mould-ripened cheeses (brie, camembert), blue cheeses, and any unpasteurised cheese — unless cooked until piping hot.
Cooked is fine
Thorough cooking kills listeria, so these cheeses are safe when cooked into hot dishes.
Frequently asked questions
Which cheeses should I avoid?
Soft mould-ripened (brie, camembert), blue cheeses, and unpasteurised cheeses unless cooked.
Is paneer safe?
Yes, if made from pasteurised milk — a great protein and calcium source.
Can I eat cheese if it is cooked?
Yes — cooking until steaming makes otherwise-risky cheeses safe.
Eat well through every week 💜
See trimester-by-trimester nutrition in the complete 40-week guide.
40-Week GuideJoin The CircleReferences
Related reading
Can I Drink Milk During Pregnancy?Foods to Avoid During PregnancyCalcium Requirements During Pregnancy📖 40-Week Pregnancy Guide
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian about your pregnancy diet, especially if you have any condition such as gestational diabetes or allergies. Reviewed by the Baby Circle Medical Board.