Mortadella during pregnancy: dietary guidelines and nutritional advice
Pregnancy is a special time for every woman, filled with joy but also accompanied by doubts and precautions. Among the main concerns is nutrition: knowing what to eat and what to avoid is essential to support the healthy development of the fetus.
Can you eat mortadella during pregnancy?
One food that often raises questions is mortadella – a cooked sausage with a distinctive flavor. Unlike raw cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, and pancetta, mortadella undergoes a thorough thermal treatment that eliminates major pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes and Toxoplasma gondii.
According to experts, mortadella is not among the foods prohibited during pregnancy, provided that it is:
- Fresh and properly stored
- Sliced with clean tools not contaminated by raw cured meats
- High quality, with low levels of salt and saturated fats
It’s best to choose packaged mortadella or freshly sliced products, avoiding items exposed to air or stored for too long.
Pregnancy nutrition guidelines: what to eat and how
Throughout the nine months of pregnancy, it’s important to follow a varied and balanced diet, as recommended by the Ministry of Health and gynecologists:
- Eat well-cooked meat and fish
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly
- Avoid raw fish, shellfish, mollusks, and lightly cured meats
- Limit intake of sugar, salt, and saturated fats
Recommended foods include:
- Legumes, whole grains, seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Nuts, a source of essential fatty acids
- Foods rich in iron, calcium, vitamins, and fiber
These guidelines help prevent infections such as salmonellosis and toxoplasmosis, which could pose risks to fetal health.
Experiencing pregnancy with peace of mind
Pregnancy is a magical time, but it can bring fears and uncertainties. Relying on healthy, safe, and nutritious foods – alongside guidance from your gynecologist – can help you experience pregnancy with greater peace of mind, free from unnecessary worries.
