Charcuterie for the Pregnant Mommy: A Guide to Safe Snacking (2025 Update)

This topic has been one of the most-read posts on my site, and for good reason. Charcuterie boards are everywhere these days, from brunches and baby showers to Friday night snack spreads. I originally wrote about this topic a few years ago while I, myself, was pregnant. It struck a nerve with readers who were looking for a way to build a charcuterie board sans soft cheeses and deli meats. I am now giving it a much needed update with the latest guidance on what you can and cannot safely enjoy while pregnant.

The short version is that yes, you can still enjoy charcuterie while pregnant. You just need to make a few smart swaps to avoid potential risks, especially from listeria and other foodborne bacteria. With a little planning, you can build a stunning and satisfying charcuterie board that is completely pregnancy-friendly.

Which Meats Are Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

Many traditional cured meats are considered unsafe during pregnancy unless they are heated until steaming hot. This includes prosciutto, salami, pâté, and other dry-cured or fermented meats. These products can carry listeria or toxoplasma, which may harm you or your baby.

However, cooked or heated meats are safe to enjoy. You can include:

• Oven-roasted turkey, chicken, or ham
• Cooked salami or pepperoni that has been heated to 165°F (74°C)
• Fully cooked cocktail sausages (I also like to turn these into pigs in a blanket)
• Grilled or pan-seared sausage slices
• All deli meats must be reheated until steaming

Always serve meats fresh and avoid anything that has been sitting at room temperature for over two hours.

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Which Cheeses Are Safe on a Pregnancy Charcuterie Board?

Cheese is still on the menu, but you need to check the labels. The main rule is to avoid anything made with unpasteurized milk. These soft, raw-milk cheeses may carry listeria, even if they look and smell fine.

Pregnancy-safe cheeses include:

• Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and parmesan
• Cream cheese and cottage cheese
• Pasteurized goat cheese
• Pasteurized versions of brie and camembert
• String cheese, mozzarella, and ricotta made from pasteurized milk

Avoid cheeses labeled “unpasteurized,” especially soft-ripened varieties like raw brie or blue cheese.

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What Else Can You Include on a Pregnancy-Safe Charcuterie Board?

A great charcuterie board includes more than just meat and cheese. You can round out your spread with a variety of textures and flavors that are both delicious and safe to eat.

Try adding:

• Fresh fruit like grapes, sliced apples, or berries (washed thoroughly)
• Dried fruit such as apricots or dates
• Raw or roasted nuts and seeds
• Crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and carrots
• Crackers, breadsticks, and toasted baguette slices
• Dips such as hummus, tzatziki, or whipped ricotta made with pasteurized dairy

Make sure all produce is washed thoroughly, and avoid pre-cut fruit trays that have been sitting out uncovered.

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Charcuterie Board Ideas for Pregnant Women

You can still create a visually impressive board with plenty of flavor. Here is a simple layout to inspire your next gathering:

• Sliced turkey breast and warm grilled chicken sausage
• Cubes of pasteurized cheddar and marinated mozzarella balls
• Fresh figs, grapes, and apple slices
• Whole grain crackers and toasted sourdough
• Roasted almonds and mixed olives
• A small bowl of hummus or whipped cream cheese with herbs

This board checks every box for safety, nutrition, and aesthetic appeal.

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Final Thoughts

You do not have to give up your favorite snack tradition just because you are pregnant! With a few ingredient swaps and some extra attention to food safety, you can still enjoy a fully loaded charcuterie board. Choose pasteurized cheeses, cook or heat all meats, and keep your board clean and temperature safe. Charcuterie can still be a part of your pregnancy cravings, just served smarter 🙂

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to provide medical advice. Everything shared here is based on my personal experience. Please consult your healthcare provider with any specific questions about your pregnancy.