Feta Cheese

Safety Status: Safe if Pasteurized

Feta cheese is generally safe to consume during pregnancy, with one critical condition: it must be made from pasteurized milk.

According to official warnings and guidelines from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), soft cheeses (including feta, brie, camembert, and blue cheese) present a high risk of Listeria monocytogenes contamination if made with unpasteurized raw milk. Pasteurization is a heating process that destroys these harmful bacteria, making pasteurized feta completely safe to eat.

If feta is imported, bought at a local farm, or purchased at a specialty cheese shop, it may be made from raw, unpasteurized milk. Unpasteurized feta must be strictly avoided during pregnancy due to the risk of listeriosis, a serious foodborne illness that can cross the placenta and lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal infection.

Nutritional Benefits of Safe Feta

When pasteurized, feta cheese is a nutritious addition to a prenatal diet. It provides:

• Calcium: Vital for the development and maintenance of your baby’s bones, teeth, and cardiovascular system.
• Protein: Supports the growth of fetal tissues and the placenta.
• Vitamin B12 & Zinc: Essential for red blood cell formation and immune function.
• Probiotics: Pasteurized feta can contain beneficial bacteria that support maternal gut health and digestion.

Safe Consumption & Kitchen Hygiene

To safely enjoy feta cheese in your salads, wraps, and cooked dishes:

• Verify the Label: Confirm the word “pasteurized” on the product packaging. In the United States, federal law requires pasteurization for all domestic soft cheeses, but imported cheeses should be checked carefully.
• Avoid Salad Bars: Skip crumbled feta from open salad bars or buffets, as these environments are prone to cross-contamination.
• Store Properly: Keep feta sealed in its brine and store it in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C). Consume it within one week of opening.
• Cook for Extra Safety: Heating feta cheese until it is bubbling hot (such as on a baked pasta or pizza) eliminates any potential bacterial risk, making even questionable soft cheeses safe to eat.