The Scoop on Unpasteurized Juices During Pregnancy - What You Need to Know

Pregnant women should avoid unpasteurized juices entirely. These juices can contain harmful bacteria like Listeria and E. coli, which pose a serious risk of foodborne illness to both the mother and developing fetus. Listeriosis, in particular, can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or serious infection in the newborn. Pasteurization kills these harmful bacteria, making pasteurized juice a much safer option during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, your immune system is naturally suppressed to accommodate the growing fetus. This makes you more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, making unpasteurized juices a significant risk. Unpasteurized juices, meaning juices that haven't been heat-treated to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, can contain pathogens like *Listeria monocytogenes*, *E. coli*, and *Salmonella*. These can cause serious infections like listeriosis, which can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or severe illness in the newborn.

Therefore, pregnant women should absolutely avoid all unpasteurized juices. The risk of infection far outweighs any perceived benefit of consuming unpasteurized juice. Opt for pasteurized juices or make your own juice at home using thoroughly washed and scrubbed fruits and vegetables. If you're making your own juice, ensure your equipment is also clean and sanitized.

In short: Safety first! Choose pasteurized juice during pregnancy. If you have any concerns about food safety during your pregnancy, always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian.