Can I Eat Leftovers While Pregnant?

Why

Per CDC guidance, the concern with leftovers and refrigerated ready-to-eat foods is Listeria, a bacterium that, unlike most germs, can keep growing at refrigerator temperatures. Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious illness in the newborn, even when it causes only mild symptoms in you. Thorough reheating kills the bacteria, which is why this food is a limit rather than an avoid.

How to enjoy it safely

Reheat leftovers and ready-to-eat foods until they are steaming hot all the way through, to an internal temperature of 165F, and stir so there are no cold spots. Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking, store them in covered containers, and use them within three to four days rather than letting them linger.

When to ask your provider

Check with your Garden OB/GYN provider if you have eaten refrigerated leftovers cold and develop fever, muscle aches, or flu-like symptoms, since these can be signs of Listeria infection.