Is It Safe to Eat Beef Jerky While Pregnant? What You Need to Know

Beef jerky is a popular snack known for its savory flavor and satisfying chew. But if you’re expecting, you might be wondering whether it’s safe to enjoy this treat during pregnancy. Let’s take a closer look at why beef jerky can be risky for pregnant women, what the concerns are, and what safer alternatives you can try.

Why Is Beef Jerky Not Recommended During Pregnancy?

When you’re pregnant, your immune system is naturally weakened, making you more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Beef jerky is made from dried, cured meat that isn’t always cooked at high enough temperatures to kill harmful bacteria or parasites. Here’s why that matters:

• Bacteria and Parasites: Undercooked or improperly processed jerky may contain Salmonella, E. coli, or Listeria. These bacteria can cause serious infections in both mom and baby.
• Dehydration Process: The process of making jerky involves drying meat at relatively low temperatures. This isn’t always enough to destroy all pathogens.
• No Pasteurization: Unlike some other foods, beef jerky isn’t pasteurized. That means it doesn’t go through a heat process that would kill dangerous microbes.

What Are the Risks of Eating Beef Jerky While Pregnant?

Consuming beef jerky during pregnancy can lead to several health risks, including:

• Listeriosis: Caused by the Listeria bacteria, this infection can result in miscarriage, premature birth, stillbirth, or severe illness in newborns.
• Salmonella and E. coli: These bacteria can cause food poisoning, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and even hospitalization.
• Toxoplasmosis: This parasite can be present in undercooked meats and may cause birth defects or complications.

While getting sick from beef jerky isn’t guaranteed, the consequences can be serious enough that most health experts recommend avoiding it altogether during pregnancy.

What Do Health Guidelines Say?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) both advise pregnant women to avoid undercooked or dried meats, including beef jerky. The risk of foodborne illness is simply too high compared to the benefits of eating jerky.

Is Homemade Jerky Any Safer?

You might think that making jerky at home is safer because you control the ingredients and process. However, homemade jerky often poses an even greater risk. Most home dehydrators don’t reach the temperatures necessary to kill bacteria and parasites. Unless you’re using a tested recipe that includes pre-cooking the meat to at least 160°F (71°C) before dehydrating, homemade jerky should also be avoided during pregnancy.

What About Store-Bought Jerky?

Commercially produced beef jerky is usually made under stricter safety standards than homemade versions. Still, even store-bought jerky isn’t always completely safe for pregnant women. There have been recalls in the past due to contamination with Listeria or Salmonella. Always check packaging for recalls and safety notices, but the safest option is to skip beef jerky entirely while pregnant.

Are There Any Safe Alternatives?

If you’re craving something salty and savory during pregnancy, there are safer snacks you can enjoy instead of beef jerky:

• Cooked Meats: Choose lean cuts of beef, chicken, or turkey that are thoroughly cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Deli Meats (Heated): If you love deli meats, make sure to heat them until steaming hot before eating.
• Nuts and Seeds: These provide protein and crunch without the risk of bacterial contamination.
• Cheese Sticks: Pasteurized cheese sticks offer a protein boost and satisfy salty cravings.
• Roasted Chickpeas or Edamame: These plant-based snacks are packed with nutrients and safe for pregnancy.

Tips for Safe Snacking During Pregnancy

• Always check food labels for pasteurization and cooking instructions.
• Avoid raw or undercooked meats, seafood, and eggs.
• Practice good food hygiene: wash hands, utensils, and surfaces thoroughly.
• Store foods properly: keep cold foods refrigerated and consume by the expiration date.
• If in doubt, ask your doctor: When unsure about a food’s safety, consult your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I eat beef jerky if it’s labeled “fully cooked”?

If a product is labeled “fully cooked” and has been pasteurized or heated to a safe temperature (at least 160°F/71°C), it may be safer than traditional jerky. However, most beef jerky products are not fully cooked in this way. Always double-check labels and consult your doctor before consuming any jerky during pregnancy.

What about turkey or chicken jerky?

Poultry-based jerkies carry similar risks as beef jerky if not fully cooked or pasteurized. The same guidelines apply—avoid unless you’re certain it’s been cooked safely.

I ate beef jerky before I knew I was pregnant. Should I worry?

If you ate beef jerky before knowing about your pregnancy, don’t panic. The risk of illness is still quite low, but watch for any symptoms like fever, stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you feel unwell or have concerns, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Are there any types of jerky that are safe during pregnancy?

The safest approach is to avoid all types of jerky—beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based versions—unless they are clearly labeled as pasteurized and fully cooked. When in doubt, choose other high-protein snacks that are known to be safe for pregnancy.

The Bottom Line

While beef jerky might be a tempting snack, it’s best to avoid it while pregnant due to the risk of harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause serious health issues for both mom and baby. Instead, opt for safer protein-rich snacks that are thoroughly cooked or pasteurized. Your health—and your baby’s—are worth it!