Can Pregnant Women Eat Raw Tuna [Answered]

Pregnancy may be a period of various dietary limitations and concerns for women.

Is it safe for pregnant women to eat raw tuna? This is one of the often-asked questions.

Given its widespread use as a standard ingredient in sushi rolls, it’s critical to comprehend the advantages and disadvantages of this item during pregnancy.

In this article, we’ll examine whether eating raw tuna is safe for expecting moms and offer suggestions for how to choose this cuisine wisely.

Can Pregnant Women Eat Raw Tuna

No, pregnant women should not consume raw tuna.

Eating tuna that is raw or undercooked increases your chance of contracting a foodborne disease, which is particularly dangerous during pregnancy.

When pregnant, it is advised to stay away from consuming raw or undercooked seafood.

Since eating raw or undercooked seafood, particularly raw tuna increases the risk of contracting foodborne illnesses like mercury poisoning and infections like salmonella or listeria, pregnant women are recommended to avoid doing so.

These might be dangerous for both the pregnant woman and the growing fetus.

Fish should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 °F in order to eradicate dangerous germs and parasites.

Additionally, pregnant women should avoid eating fish like tuna which contains high mercury levels.

The importance of food safety during pregnancy

To protect the health and wellness of both the mother and the unborn child, food safety is crucial throughout pregnancy.

Foodborne diseases can result from eating food that has been contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, or other toxins.

Pregnant women and their unborn children are especially vulnerable to foodborne infections.

Pregnant women should refrain from consuming raw or undercooked meats, seafood, unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheeses, and uncooked eggs to guarantee the safety of their diets.

Furthermore, pregnant women must constantly ensure that their food is prepared to the proper internal temperature and prevent cross-contamination by routinely cleaning their hands and surfaces.

By adhering to these food safety recommendations, you may guarantee that both the mother and the unborn child remain healthy during the pregnancy.

Read more about eating frozen tuna.

Risks of Eating Raw Tuna for Pregnant Women

The following are some common risks of eating raw tuna for pregnant women:

Mercury Contamination

High quantities of mercury, which can be hazardous to both the mother and the growing fetus, can be found in raw tuna.

Mercury is a heavy metal that can harm the neurological system and cause developmental issues in the fetus, including intellectual and behavioral challenges.

To lower the risk of exposure, pregnant women are recommended to minimize their consumption of high-mercury seafood, such as tuna.

Weakened Immune System

A pregnant woman’s immune system might be weakened by eating meals that are raw or undercooked, which increases her vulnerability to infections and diseases.

As the fetus depends on the mother’s immune system for protection during pregnancy, this might be damaging to both the mother and the fetus.

Parasitic Infection

Anisakis, a parasite that can cause diarrhea, nausea, and stomach pain, can be contracted from eating raw or undercooked tuna.

Both the mother and the fetus may suffer injury from the parasite’s larvae attaching to the gut wall and inflaming the tissue.

Bacterial Contamination

Salmonella and Listeria, two dangerous bacteria that can lead to food poisoning and perhaps damage the fetus, can be found in raw fish.

Food poisoning can result in fever, nausea, vomiting, and pains in the abdomen.

It can also induce dangerous fetal illnesses including listeriosis, which can result in stillbirth, early delivery, and newborn infections.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12, which is crucial for the healthy growth of the fetus, is abundant in tuna.

Anemia and developmental issues in the fetus can result from a shortage of this vitamin, which can be caused by eating raw fish.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D, which is crucial for the fetus’s development of strong bones and teeth, is also present in tuna in significant amounts.

However, eating raw fish may also deplete part of this vitamin, resulting in a shortage that might cause the fetus to have weak bones and teeth.

Sushi-borne Illnesses

Raw tuna used in sushi can spread a number of foodborne diseases, such as norovirus and hepatitis A.

These infections can produce severe diarrhea and vomiting, which can dehydrate both the mother and the fetus, endangering both of them.

Food Allergies

Some people may be sensitive to raw fish, and eating it while pregnant might result in a serious allergic reaction like anaphylaxis, which can be seriously dangerous.

It is crucial for pregnant women to weigh these risks and speak with their doctor before ingesting raw tuna.

Pregnant women are often advised to steer clear of raw or undercooked fish and choose cooked fish instead.

Read more about ahi tuna and pregnancy.

Guidelines for Pregnant Women on Eating Raw Tuna

Pregnant women are typically advised to avoid eating raw or undercooked seafood, particularly raw tuna, due to the possibility of contracting foodborne illnesses such as parasite infections and mercury exposure.

If pregnant women want to consume raw tuna, they should make sure it is sushi-grade, meaning it has undergone a special processing and freezing procedure to eradicate pathogenic germs and parasites.

The FDA has established criteria for safe fish intake during pregnancy, but it’s crucial to remember that even sushi-grade tuna still contains some mercury.

Pregnant women should restrict their consumption of raw tuna and abide by these recommendations.

These recommendations advise not eating any bigeye or ahi (yellowfin) tuna and restricting albacore (white) tuna intake to no more than 6 ounces per week.

Read more about tuna and constipation.

Alternatives to Raw Tuna for Pregnant Women

All these alternatives must be properly cooked to an internal temperature of 145 °F.

There are a number of seafood alternatives that are safe to eat while pregnant for those who want to avoid raw tuna:

1. Sardines: Sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury. When thoroughly cooked, they are suitable for consumption by pregnant women.
2. Cooked Tuna:  Tuna that has been cooked to an internal temperature of 145 °F is OK for consumption by expectant mothers.
3. Salmon: Fully cooked salmon, whether it be fresh or tinned, is a nutritious substitute for raw tuna and is suitable for consumption by expectant women.
4. Shrimp: Pregnant women can safely eat cooked shrimp, which is a low-mercury seafood alternative.
5. Tilapia: When thoroughly cooked, tilapia has a moderate flavor is low in mercury, and is safe to consume while pregnant.

Due to the possibility of mercury pollution, it is crucial for pregnant women to restrict their seafood intake and to speak with their healthcare professionals about particular guidelines.

Read more about lunch meat and pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe for pregnant women to eat cooked tuna?

Pregnant women can safely eat cooked tuna in moderation, but it’s still crucial to keep the amount under check owing to the fish’s high mercury concentration.

How much tuna during pregnancy is safe to consume?

The FDA advises pregnant women to consume no more than 6 ounces (170 grams) of tuna per week.

Can raw tuna hurt a fetus that is still developing?

Yes, eating raw tuna while pregnant increases the chance of contracting a foodborne disease, and the fish’s mercury content can be harmful to the growing fetus.

Can pregnant women consume raw tuna without risk?

Due to the possibility of contracting a foodborne disease and the presence of mercury, it is not advised for pregnant women to consume raw tuna.

Can pregnant women eat sushi prepared with raw tuna?

Pregnant women shouldn’t consume any raw fish, especially raw tuna in sushi.

What other protein-rich foods are available to expectant women who want to avoid raw tuna?

Protein may be found in a range of foods for expectant mothers, including eggs, dairy products, meat, poultry, beans, lentils, and tofu.

Read more about red meat and pregnancy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s crucial for pregnant women to use caution while eating raw tuna.

Consuming raw tuna can increase the risk of foodborne diseases such as scombroid food poisoning and mercury poisoning, which can both be harmful to the unborn child’s health.

This risk is especially significant for pregnant women. It is usually preferable to choose cooked tuna or keep your intake of raw tuna to a minimum.

Always seek out individualized guidance from a healthcare professional to ensure a risk-free and healthy pregnancy.

References

1. Can You Eat Raw Tuna? Benefits and Dangers.
2. FAD.
3. Can You Eat Tuna While Pregnant?