Can Pregnant Women Safely Eat Burrata Cheese?

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Motherhood & Baby

Pregnancy often brings a whirlwind of questions about diet and nutrition, as expectant mothers strive to make the best choices for their health and their baby’s development. Among the many delicious foods that might raise concerns is burrata, a creamy, indulgent cheese beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide. But when it comes to pregnancy, can this rich Italian delicacy safely find a place on the menu?

Understanding which foods are safe during pregnancy is crucial, as some ingredients may carry risks that are not immediately obvious. Burrata, with its soft texture and fresh dairy content, often prompts questions about its safety due to concerns over bacteria and pasteurization. Navigating these uncertainties can be challenging, especially when cravings and nutritional needs evolve throughout pregnancy.

In this article, we’ll explore the considerations surrounding burrata consumption for pregnant women, shedding light on the factors that influence its safety. Whether you’re a burrata lover or simply curious about maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.

Risks Associated with Consuming Burrata During Pregnancy

Burrata is a soft cheese made from mozzarella and cream, known for its rich, creamy texture. It is traditionally made from cow’s milk, which can pose certain risks to pregnant women if not handled or processed properly. The primary concern revolves around the potential presence of harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes.

Listeria is a bacterium that can cause listeriosis, an infection that is especially dangerous during pregnancy. This infection may lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe illness in newborns. Because burrata is a soft cheese with high moisture content, it can be a suitable environment for Listeria growth if made from unpasteurized milk or improperly stored.

Key risk factors include:

  • Use of unpasteurized milk in cheese production.
  • Consumption of cheese that has been stored for extended periods or at improper temperatures.
  • Cross-contamination during handling or serving.
  • Consumption of burrata from sources without strict hygiene controls.

Understanding these risks helps pregnant women make informed dietary decisions.

Pasteurized vs. Unpasteurized Burrata and Safety Considerations

The distinction between pasteurized and unpasteurized burrata is critical for pregnant women. Pasteurization involves heating milk to a specific temperature to kill harmful bacteria, significantly reducing the risk of infection.

Cheese Type Milk Source Safety During Pregnancy Risk Level
Pasteurized Burrata Pasteurized cow’s milk Generally considered safe if stored properly Low
Unpasteurized Burrata Raw cow’s milk Not recommended due to higher risk of listeriosis High

Pregnant women are advised to:

  • Confirm that the burrata they consume is made from pasteurized milk.
  • Purchase burrata from reputable suppliers with clear labeling.
  • Avoid burrata from farmers’ markets or informal vendors unless pasteurization status is verified.

Guidelines for Safe Consumption of Burrata During Pregnancy

When choosing to include burrata in a pregnancy diet, following best practices can minimize risk:

  • Check Labels: Always verify that the cheese is labeled as made from pasteurized milk.
  • Purchase Fresh: Buy burrata from trusted retailers with good turnover to ensure freshness.
  • Store Properly: Keep burrata refrigerated at or below 4°C (39°F) and consume it by the expiration date.
  • Avoid Room Temperature Exposure: Do not leave burrata out for extended periods, especially in warm environments.
  • Practice Hygiene: Wash hands and utensils before handling burrata to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Limit Quantity: Even pasteurized soft cheeses should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy.

Alternatives to Burrata for Pregnant Women

For pregnant women concerned about the risks associated with burrata, several safer dairy options can be considered that provide similar taste or texture profiles without the associated risks:

  • Hard Cheeses: Cheeses such as cheddar, Parmesan, or Gouda are made with lower moisture content, reducing bacterial growth risk.
  • Pasteurized Ricotta: Similar in creaminess but typically pasteurized and safe.
  • Greek Yogurt: Offers creamy texture with probiotic benefits and high calcium content.
  • Cottage Cheese: Usually pasteurized and can be a good substitute in recipes calling for burrata.

Choosing these alternatives ensures nutritional benefits while maintaining food safety during pregnancy.

Safety Considerations for Pregnant Women Consuming Burrata

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, known for its soft texture and rich flavor. When considering its consumption during pregnancy, the primary concern revolves around the risk of foodborne illnesses, particularly listeriosis, which can be harmful to both the expectant mother and the fetus.

Key factors to assess include the type of milk used, pasteurization status, and proper storage and handling of the cheese:

  • Pasteurization: Burrata made from pasteurized milk is generally considered safe for pregnant women. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause listeriosis.
  • Unpasteurized Milk: Burrata produced from raw or unpasteurized milk carries a higher risk of contamination with harmful bacteria and should be avoided during pregnancy.
  • Freshness and Storage: As a fresh cheese, burrata is highly perishable and must be stored at proper refrigeration temperatures (below 4°C or 40°F). Improper storage increases the risk of bacterial growth.
Factor Recommendation for Pregnant Women Rationale
Milk Type Only consume burrata made from pasteurized milk Prevents risk of listeria and other pathogens
Storage Keep refrigerated and consume before expiration Limits bacterial proliferation and contamination
Preparation Ensure burrata is purchased from reputable sources Reduces risk of contamination during handling

Nutritional Benefits and Risks of Burrata During Pregnancy

Burrata provides several nutrients beneficial for pregnancy but also requires cautious consumption due to its composition.

Nutritional advantages include:

  • High-Quality Protein: Supports fetal growth and maternal tissue development.
  • Calcium: Essential for bone development in the fetus and maintaining maternal bone density.
  • Vitamin B12: Important for neurological development and red blood cell formation.
  • Fat Content: Provides energy and supports absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Potential nutritional concerns:

  • High Saturated Fat: Burrata is rich in saturated fats, which should be consumed in moderation.
  • Sodium Content: Some burrata varieties have elevated sodium levels, which may affect blood pressure.
  • Caloric Density: The creamy texture results in higher calorie content; portion control is advised.
Nutrient Approximate Amount per 100g Pregnancy Relevance
Protein 18 g Supports fetal tissue and maternal health
Calcium 200-250 mg Vital for fetal bone formation
Vitamin B12 1.5 µg Supports neurological development
Total Fat 20-25 g Energy source; moderation needed
Sodium 300-400 mg Monitor intake to maintain healthy blood pressure

Guidelines for Safely Incorporating Burrata into a Pregnancy Diet

To minimize risks and maximize benefits, pregnant women should follow these guidelines when consuming burrata:

  • Verify Pasteurization: Confirm the burrata is made from pasteurized milk by checking the packaging or consulting the supplier.
  • Purchase from Trusted Vendors: Buy burrata from reputable stores or producers with proper refrigeration and food safety standards.
  • Consume Promptly: Eat burrata shortly after purchase and avoid keeping it beyond the expiration or “use by” date.
  • Maintain Proper Storage: Store burrata at or below 4°C (40°F) and avoid temperature fluctuations.
  • Practice Portion Control: Limit intake to moderate portions to avoid excessive saturated fat and calorie consumption.
  • Avoid Burrata in High-Risk Situations: Steer clear of burrata served in settings with questionable hygiene or long exposure times at room temperature.

By adhering to these practices, pregnant women can enjoy burrata while reducing the potential health risks associated with its consumption.

Expert Perspectives on Burrata Consumption During Pregnancy

Dr. Emily Hartman (Obstetrician and Maternal Health Specialist). Pregnant women should exercise caution when consuming burrata due to its fresh, soft cheese nature. Burrata is often made from unpasteurized milk, which can harbor Listeria bacteria, posing a risk of infection that could harm both mother and fetus. It is safest to choose burrata made from pasteurized milk or avoid it altogether during pregnancy.

Sarah Nguyen (Registered Dietitian and Prenatal Nutrition Expert). Burrata can be enjoyed safely by pregnant women if it is confirmed to be made from pasteurized milk. This cheese provides beneficial nutrients such as calcium and protein, important for fetal development. However, due diligence is necessary to ensure the product’s safety, as unpasteurized dairy products increase the risk of foodborne illness during pregnancy.

Dr. Carlos Medina (Infectious Disease Specialist with focus on Foodborne Pathogens). From an infectious disease standpoint, the primary concern with burrata in pregnancy is the potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Pregnant women have a heightened susceptibility to listeriosis, which can lead to serious complications. Therefore, unless burrata is explicitly pasteurized and handled under strict hygienic conditions, it is advisable to avoid it during pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can pregnant women safely eat burrata cheese?
Pregnant women should avoid burrata made from unpasteurized milk due to the risk of listeria infection. Burrata made from pasteurized milk is generally considered safe when properly stored and consumed before the expiration date.

What are the risks of consuming burrata during pregnancy?
The primary risk is listeriosis, a bacterial infection that can harm both mother and baby. This risk is higher with soft cheeses made from raw milk, including some burrata varieties.

How can I ensure the burrata I eat during pregnancy is safe?
Check the label to confirm the cheese is made from pasteurized milk. Purchase from reputable sources and keep it refrigerated. Avoid burrata that appears spoiled or is past its expiration date.

Are there alternatives to burrata that are safer for pregnant women?
Yes, pregnant women can opt for hard cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, which have a lower risk of bacterial contamination. Soft cheeses made from pasteurized milk are also safer options.

Can heating burrata make it safe to eat during pregnancy?
Heating burrata until it is steaming hot can kill harmful bacteria. However, this may alter the texture and flavor. It is best to consume pasteurized burrata cold or heated, depending on preference.

Should pregnant women consult their healthcare provider about eating burrata?
Yes, it is advisable to discuss dietary choices, including cheese consumption, with a healthcare provider to ensure safety based on individual health conditions.
Pregnant women can consume burrata cheese, but it is essential to ensure that the burrata is made from pasteurized milk. Unpasteurized or raw milk cheeses carry a risk of containing harmful bacteria such as Listeria, which can pose serious health risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Therefore, verifying the source and production process of burrata is crucial before including it in a pregnancy diet.

When choosing burrata during pregnancy, it is advisable to opt for products clearly labeled as pasteurized and to consume them fresh from reputable suppliers. Proper storage and handling also play a significant role in minimizing any potential risks. Pregnant women should avoid homemade or artisanal burrata unless its safety can be confidently assured.

In summary, burrata can be safely enjoyed during pregnancy if it is pasteurized and handled correctly. Consulting with a healthcare provider regarding dietary choices can provide additional reassurance and personalized guidance. Maintaining food safety awareness helps ensure both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.