Cheese & Pregnancy
A Word On Cheese & Pregnancy
The widespread consensus in the medical community is that pregnant women, and those suffering immune deficiencies, should avoid all forms of soft cheese. Pregnancy can be a worrisome condition at times, without complicating things further. The belief is that soft cheeses, such as gorgonzola, bleu, and brie, undergo processing after they are created, which raises their risk of bacterial contamination. These cheeses take on the same type of reputation as do raw poultry or eggs. Acceptable forms of dairy include anything pasteurized and homogenized, as well as all hard cheeses and cottage cheese. Pregnancy requires forward thinking along the lines of health and nutrition, so here are a few more details about cheese pregnancy.
Hard cheeses are safe because they cannot set up properly if they are contaminated with negative bacteria. The scientific formula for making cheese is so exact that each active culture and positive bacteria has to be precise and accounted for. During the separation process of hard cheese, if the curds float in the whey, the cheese is tossed because it is not sterile. Hard cheese production is regulated by the government, and made to pass stringent codes for quality and cleanliness of ingredients.
Soft cheeses are more often made from raw milk, which gives them the crumbly texture that they are so popular for. They are also processed after they are created, unlike the brick cheeses which are merely controlled for temperature and moisture after they are made. The risk factors involved with this multi-staged process kick up the chance for contamination in soft cheese. Pregnancy is a time when both mother and fetus are highly vulnerable to the perils of food borne illness. Soft cheeses are often clumped together in the same risk category as raw meats and pneumonia. They are to be avoided, even run away from.
While these soft and crumbles cheeses are not able to be consumed by expectant mothers, there are many tasty and nutritious alternatives to them. Any strength of cheddar cheese is welcomed, from mil to extra sharp. Swiss cheese is a low calorie, high moisture cheese which is perfect on salads and sandwiches, as well as with fruit. Cottage cheese is a wonderful dietary supplement, gracing salads, cold plates, and canned fruits with a creamy, cool and satisfying texture. American cheese singles are a fortified, processed product, but offer a great source of calcium and a great melting quality. All in all, the expectant mother has a great many delicious and healthy options aside from soft cheeses. The temporary sacrifice is well worth the safety that one can procure for themselves and their unborn. So grab a chunk of mozzarella, an apple, and a good book. The bleu cheese will still be there when you’re ready.