Pregnant women are advised not to eat deli meat because of the risk of listeriosis, an infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. Listeria can be present in deli meats and can cause serious complications during pregnancy, including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, and life-threatening infections in newborns. Pregnant women are about 10 times more likely to get listeriosis than the general population, and the illness can also cause severe symptoms in the mother such as fever, headache, vomiting, and complications affecting the baby’s brain, kidneys, and heart. The main safety concern is that deli meats can harbor listeria if not properly handled or cooked. Heating deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F (to steaming hot) can kill the bacteria and reduce the risk. Therefore, it is recommended for pregnant women to avoid cold or uncooked deli meats, but if cravings occur, the meat should be thoroughly heated before eating. In summary:
- Risk: Listeria in deli meats can cause severe pregnancy complications.
- Pregnant women are more vulnerable to listeriosis.
- Avoid cold deli meats, hot dogs, and soft cheeses unless reheated to 165°F.
- Cooking deli meat thoroughly is the safest way to reduce risk.
These guidelines come from health experts and organizations including the CDC and obstetricians.
