The everything bagel, characterized by its generous topping of mixed seeds and dried spices, is a popular choice for breakfast or a snack. Pregnancy often brings increased caution regarding food safety, leading to specific questions about common foods. Examining the components, from the base dough to the toppings and common additions, can clarify which parts of the meal are safe and which require moderation or special preparation.
The Poppy Seed Concern
The primary concern regarding the everything bagel is the poppy seed, which is derived from the opium poppy plant (Papaver somniferum). During harvesting, the seeds can become contaminated with the milky sap, or latex, from the pod, which naturally contains trace amounts of opiate alkaloids like morphine and codeine. Although the seeds are processed and washed to significantly reduce this contamination, a small residue remains.
Consuming poppy seeds can lead to a positive result on a urine drug test for opiates. Studies have shown that eating even a small number of poppy seeds, such as those on a bagel, can result in codeine and morphine levels detectable in urine for up to 48 hours after consumption. Concentrations can sometimes exceed established limits, though the threshold for a positive test varies by laboratory.
For pregnant individuals, the concern is less about the trace amount of opiates causing a psychoactive effect, which is practically impossible from a baked good. The primary risk is the potential for a false-positive drug screen, which is sometimes administered near delivery. While normal food consumption is not considered a direct risk to the fetus, it is nearly impossible to determine exactly how much opiate residue is on any given batch of seeds. To completely eliminate the possibility of a false positive, some medical professionals suggest avoiding poppy seeds in the days leading up to the expected screening.
Safety of Other Toppings
The “everything” seasoning mixture is composed of several other ingredients that are generally recognized as safe for consumption during pregnancy. These include sesame seeds, dried minced garlic, and dried onion flakes. Sesame seeds, both white and black, are safe to eat, though individuals with a known sesame allergy should avoid them.
Dried garlic and onion flakes are safe from a foodborne illness perspective because they are dried and baked onto the product. However, some people in the later stages of pregnancy may find that these strong flavors can contribute to digestive discomfort. The slowed digestion and increased pressure from the growing uterus can exacerbate heartburn or gas, which may be triggered by allium-family spices.
Addressing Common Bagel Pairings
The greatest food safety risks come from common additions, rather than the bagel itself. Pairings like smoked fish (lox), deli meats, and certain cheeses can harbor the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. Pregnant individuals are significantly more likely to contract listeriosis, an infection that can be dangerous for the developing fetus.
Cold-smoked fish, including lox and gravlax, is cured but not cooked to a temperature that kills Listeria. To consume lox safely, it must be heated until it is steaming hot, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This same heating guidance applies to deli meats, such as sliced turkey or ham, often used in bagel sandwiches.
Unpasteurized soft cheeses, like Brie, Camembert, and certain types of queso fresco, pose a risk if they are made with raw milk. It is important to confirm that any cream cheese or soft cheese spread used on the bagel is clearly labeled as being made with pasteurized milk. Ensuring all high-risk accompaniments are properly prepared increases the overall safety of the meal.
Nutritional Context of the Bagel
The bagel itself should be considered within the context of a healthy prenatal diet. A typical commercially prepared bagel is made from refined white flour, making it a source of simple carbohydrates. This composition gives the bagel a high glycemic index (generally around 70 to 72), which can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels after consumption.
For those managing gestational diabetes or seeking sustained energy, choosing a whole-grain bagel can mitigate this effect. Whole-grain varieties contain more dietary fiber, which slows digestion and allows for a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. Commercial everything bagels are also often high in sodium due to the salt included in the dough and the coarse salt flakes in the seasoning. Awareness of this sodium content is useful for individuals monitoring salt intake due to blood pressure concerns.