Can I Eat Pepperoni Pizza While Pregnant? Safety Guide

Yes, you can eat pepperoni pizza while pregnant, but only if the pepperoni is cooked until steaming hot, such as on a freshly baked pizza. Cold or undercooked pepperoni carries a risk of listeria and toxoplasmosis, which can harm your baby. This guide explains how to safely enjoy pepperoni pizza, the risks of cold cured meats, and what to do if you've eaten undercooked pepperoni.

Why Pepperoni Needs Special Attention During Pregnancy

Pepperoni is a cured meat made from fermented and dried beef and pork. Unlike cooked meats, it is not heated to a high enough temperature during production to kill all bacteria. The NHS advises that cold cured meats like pepperoni should be cooked until steaming hot before eating during pregnancy. This is because they may contain listeria bacteria or toxoplasma parasites.

Listeria can cause listeriosis, a serious infection that may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns. Toxoplasmosis can also cause miscarriage or birth defects. While the risk is low, the consequences are severe enough to warrant caution.

How Cooking Makes Pepperoni Pizza Safe

Heat kills listeria and toxoplasma. When pepperoni is baked on a pizza at high temperatures (typically 450°F to 800°F in commercial ovens), it reaches an internal temperature above 165°F (74°C), which is sufficient to destroy these pathogens. According to PregnancyPlate, pepperoni is safe during pregnancy only if heated until steaming hot, such as on a cooked pizza.

To ensure safety, the pizza should be cooked thoroughly and served hot. The pepperoni should be sizzling and the cheese bubbling. If you're ordering takeaway, make sure it arrives hot and eat it soon after delivery.

Risks of Cold or Undercooked Pepperoni

Cold pepperoni, such as from a deli counter or charcuterie board, is not safe during pregnancy. Deli slicers can harbor listeria, and the bacteria can survive and even grow at refrigerator temperatures. Femia Health notes that cold pepperoni should be avoided or reheated until steaming hot.

If you accidentally eat cold pepperoni, don't panic. The risk of infection is low, but monitor for symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, or diarrhea. Contact your healthcare provider if you develop any symptoms, as listeriosis can appear days or even weeks after exposure.

Safe Ways to Enjoy Pepperoni Pizza

• Bake it well: Ensure the pizza is cooked until the pepperoni is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
• Reheat leftovers properly: If you have leftover pizza, reheat it in an oven or air fryer until the pepperoni is steaming hot. Avoid microwaving, as it may not heat evenly.
• Choose reputable sources: Order from trusted pizzerias that cook pizzas at high temperatures.
• Limit intake: Pepperoni is high in sodium and nitrates, which can contribute to swelling and other issues. Enjoy it in moderation.

What About Other Pizza Toppings?

Most pizza toppings are safe during pregnancy if cooked thoroughly. Mozzarella made from pasteurized milk is safe, as are cooked vegetables and meats. However, avoid soft cheeses like brie or blue cheese unless they are cooked until steaming hot. Seafood toppings should be fully cooked, and tuna should be limited due to mercury content. For more details, see BabyCentre's guide.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or gastrointestinal distress after eating pepperoni or any potentially contaminated food, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Listeriosis can be treated with antibiotics, and early intervention is crucial for your health and your baby's.

For personalized advice, always consult your midwife or doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions or pregnancy complications.