Can I Eat Cream Cheese While Pregnant? Safety Guide

Yes, you can eat cream cheese while pregnant, provided it is made from pasteurized milk. Most commercial cream cheese sold in the United States and the United Kingdom is pasteurized, making it safe to consume during pregnancy. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria such as Listeria, which can cause listeriosis, a serious infection linked to miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm labor. Always check the label to confirm the product is pasteurized, and avoid unpasteurized or homemade cream cheese unless it has been thoroughly cooked. You can also explore Can You Eat Smoked Salmon While Pregnant? Safety Guide for a closer comparison.

Why Cream Cheese Is Usually Safe During Pregnancy

Cream cheese is a soft, spreadable cheese made from milk and cream. Unlike mold-ripened soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert, cream cheese is not aged and has a high moisture content, but it is typically pasteurized. According to the CDC, pregnant women can safely eat soft cheeses such as cream cheese, cottage cheese, and mozzarella when they are made with pasteurized milk. The NHS also lists pasteurized soft cheeses, including cream cheese, as safe to eat during pregnancy. Our breakdown of Can I Eat Fried Sushi While Pregnant? Safety Guide covers the related details.

Pasteurization involves heating milk to a specific temperature to kill pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes. In the U.S., federal law requires that any cheese made with raw milk be aged for at least 60 days, but cream cheese is not aged and is therefore almost always made from pasteurized milk. However, it is still important to check the label, especially when buying from farmers' markets or specialty stores where unpasteurized products may be sold.

What About Philadelphia Cream Cheese and Other Brands?

Philadelphia cream cheese, one of the most popular brands, is made with pasteurized milk and cream, making it safe for pregnant women. The manufacturer confirms that all their cream cheese products are pasteurized. Other commercial brands sold in mainstream grocery stores are also typically pasteurized. When in doubt, look for the word "pasteurized" on the ingredient list or contact the manufacturer. Our breakdown of Is Imitation Crab Safe to Eat While Pregnant covers the related details.

If you are at a restaurant or deli and cannot verify the pasteurization status, it is safest to avoid cream cheese unless it is served hot, such as in a cooked dish. Heating cream cheese until it is steaming hot (165°F or 74°C) can kill any potential Listeria bacteria.

Potential Risks: Listeria and Unpasteurized Cream Cheese

The main concern with soft cheeses during pregnancy is the risk of listeriosis, caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than the general population, according to the BabyCenter. Listeriosis can lead to severe complications including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection in the newborn. For related context, see our guide to Can You Have a Root Canal While Pregnant? Safety Guide.

Unpasteurized cream cheese, sometimes labeled "raw milk" cream cheese, may contain Listeria. The MotherToBaby organization advises that unpasteurized cheeses should be avoided during pregnancy unless they are cooked until steaming hot. Additionally, cream cheese that has been contaminated after pasteurization, such as through cross-contamination in a deli, can pose a risk. Always practice good food safety: keep cream cheese refrigerated, consume it before the use-by date, and avoid products that have been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.

Nutritional Benefits of Cream Cheese During Pregnancy

Cream cheese can be part of a healthy pregnancy diet when consumed in moderation. It provides calcium and protein, which are essential for your baby's bone development and growth. However, cream cheese is also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be eaten in reasonable amounts. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that pregnant women aim for three servings of dairy per day, which can include milk, yogurt, and cheese. One serving of cream cheese is about 2 tablespoons.

If you are concerned about weight gain or gestational diabetes, consider choosing reduced-fat or light cream cheese, which has fewer calories and less fat. Always check the label for pasteurization and nutritional content.

How to Safely Include Cream Cheese in Your Pregnancy Diet

Here are practical tips for enjoying cream cheese safely during pregnancy:

• Check the label: Look for the word "pasteurized" on the package. If it's not listed, assume it may be unpasteurized and avoid it.
• Buy from reputable sources: Purchase cream cheese from supermarkets or trusted brands. Avoid homemade or farm-made cream cheese unless you are certain it is pasteurized.
• Keep it cold: Store cream cheese in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. Do not leave it out for more than two hours.
• Eat before the use-by date: Consume cream cheese before its expiration date to minimize the risk of bacterial growth.
• Cook if unsure: If you cannot verify pasteurization, use cream cheese in cooked dishes like cheesecake, casseroles, or hot dips, ensuring it reaches steaming hot temperatures.

By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy cream cheese on bagels, in sandwiches, or as a dip during your pregnancy.

When to Avoid Cream Cheese Completely

While pasteurized cream cheese is safe, there are certain situations where you should avoid it:

• Unpasteurized cream cheese: Any product made from raw milk should be avoided unless thoroughly cooked.
• Expired or improperly stored cream cheese: If the package is swollen, has an off smell, or has been left out too long, discard it.
• Cross-contaminated cream cheese: If it has come into contact with raw meat or other contaminated foods, do not eat it.
• If you have a weakened immune system: Pregnant women with certain medical conditions may need to be extra cautious. Consult your healthcare provider.

If you accidentally eat unpasteurized cream cheese, do not panic. The risk of listeriosis is low, but monitor for symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea. If you develop any symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as prompt treatment with antibiotics can reduce the risk to your baby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I eat a bagel with cream cheese while pregnant?

Yes, as long as the cream cheese is pasteurized. Bagels with cream cheese are a common and safe choice during pregnancy when the cream cheese is from a reliable source and has been properly refrigerated.

Is all Philadelphia cream cheese pasteurized?

Yes, Philadelphia brand cream cheese is made with pasteurized milk and cream, making it safe for pregnant women. Always check the label to confirm.

Should I avoid cream cheese when pregnant?

No, you do not need to avoid cream cheese if it is pasteurized. It is a safe and nutritious food when consumed in moderation.

What if I ate unpasteurized cream cheese?

If you have eaten unpasteurized cream cheese, the risk of listeriosis is low but not zero. Watch for symptoms like fever, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues. Contact your healthcare provider if you feel unwell or have concerns.