Help Me, Mia! Which Salad Dressings Are Safe During Pregnancy?

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Hi there! Are you feeling overwhelmed by the list of foods and drinks you need to avoid while pregnant? Well, here’s some good news! You can enjoy most salad dressings, especially those that are commercially prepared. If you’re checking the ingredients on that bottle, you’ll likely find that it’s safe for you.

The main concern surrounding salad dressings comes from those made with raw eggs, like some homemade mayo or hollandaise sauces. However, most store-bought dressings use pasteurized eggs, which means they’ve been treated to eliminate harmful bacteria such as salmonella. So go ahead and grab that bottle of Caesar dressing and drizzle it on your salad—just remember to refrigerate it according to the label instructions.

When it comes to dressings made at restaurants, the situation can vary. Some restaurants use pasteurized eggs, while others do not. If you’re unsure, it’s best to ask. A good rule of thumb is to stick with vinaigrettes or creamy dressings that don’t contain eggs, like ranch made with commercial mayo.

If you’re craving blue cheese dressing but worry about the soft cheese being a listeria risk, you can relax again! Most commercially prepared blue cheese dressings are made with pasteurized cheese, which should be noted in the ingredients. At restaurants, confirming that the cheese is pasteurized will help you enjoy your meal without anxiety.

Thinking of making your own dressing? Just opt for pasteurized eggs to keep it safe. The world of at-home insemination is also growing, and if you’re curious about that, you can explore Make A Mom, which offers reusable options for at-home insemination. For more information on how this process works, check out how at-home insemination works.

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In summary, most commercially prepared salad dressings are safe for you during pregnancy, especially those made with pasteurized ingredients. If you’re ever unsure about a restaurant’s dressing, don’t hesitate to ask questions for peace of mind. Enjoy your salads and stay healthy!