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Is it safe? · Pregnancy Smart

Is shrimp safe during pregnancy?

Assigned clinical reviewerMichael Yuzefovich· MD, FACOGDraft · pending clinical reviewUpdated

What does the evidence say about shrimp during pregnancy?

  1. Shrimp is in the FDA and EPA's 'Best Choices' category, up to 2 to 3 servings a week, because it's low in mercury. 1
  2. Shrimp is one of the lower-mercury seafood options generally recommended during pregnancy. 2
  3. Raw or undercooked shellfish, including raw shrimp and ceviche, is best avoided during pregnancy because of Vibrio and other pathogen risks. 3
  4. Seafood should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F, or until the flesh is opaque and separates easily with a fork. 4

Is shrimp safe in each trimester?

  • First trimester. Fully cooked shrimp is a good lean-protein option in the first trimester, if your nausea lets you tolerate it.
  • Second trimester. The same guidance applies here: 2 to 3 servings a week, from the FDA's Best Choices list.
  • Third trimester. The same guidance applies in the third trimester. Make sure shrimp is cooked all the way through until it's opaque, pink, and firm.

Frequently asked questions

What is a serving of shrimp?

The FDA counts a serving as 4 ounces, roughly a large handful of medium shrimp. Two to three servings a week fits the Best Choices guidance.

Is shrimp cocktail acceptable?

Yes, shrimp cocktail is typically made with fully cooked, chilled shrimp, so it's fine as long as it was cooked and refrigerated properly. Skip any version described as raw or 'flash-marinated.'

What about shrimp ceviche?

Traditional ceviche uses citrus acid to change the protein's texture, but it never reaches a safe cooking temperature. Skip it during pregnancy, or ask for a cooked version.

Are prawns handled differently from shrimp?

No, prawns and shrimp follow the same food-safety guidance during pregnancy. Just cook them fully until opaque and firm.

Related in the library

References

  1. Advice about Eating Fish: FDA

    FDA · https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/advice-about-eating-fish

  2. Methylmercury and Pregnancy: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet

    MotherToBaby · https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/methylmercury-pregnancy/

  3. Questions & Answers from the FDA/EPA Advice about Eating Fish: FDA

    FDA · https://www.fda.gov/food/consumers/questions-answers-fdaepa-advice-about-eating-fish-those-who-might-become-or-are-pregnant-or

  4. Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women: CDC Food Safety

    CDC · https://www.cdc.gov/food-safety/foods/pregnant-women.html

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.