Can I Eat Pre-made deli salads While Pregnant?

Why

Pre-made deli salads like coleslaw, potato, tuna, chicken, and egg salad from a store deli counter carry a listeria risk, according to the CDC. Listeria is unusual because it can grow even at refrigerator temperatures, and deli salads are often held for long periods and handled by many people, which gives the bacteria time and opportunity to spread. Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, premature delivery, or serious illness in a newborn, even when you feel only mildly sick.

How to enjoy it safely

Make these salads fresh at home from ingredients you have cooked and washed yourself, then keep them well chilled and eat them within a day or two. If you buy prepared salads, choose sealed, well within date products over open deli counter versions.

When to ask your provider

Ask your Garden OB/GYN provider if you develop fever, chills, or muscle aches after eating deli prepared foods, since listeria can take time to cause symptoms.