Everything Bagel Seasoning (EBS) is a popular culinary blend used on many foods beyond just bagels. This mixture delivers a distinct savory and textured crunch. Consuming EBS is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used in typical culinary amounts. The safety profile depends primarily on two factors: the inclusion of poppy seeds and the blend’s high sodium content, both of which require a closer look to ensure they fit into a healthy pregnancy diet.
What is Everything Bagel Seasoning Made Of?
The flavor profile of Everything Bagel Seasoning comes from a simple combination of common pantry items. The standard components include white and black sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried minced garlic, dried minced onion, and coarse salt. The seeds provide texture and a source of fiber, alongside trace amounts of minerals like calcium and iron.
The dried garlic and onion flakes are safe for consumption during pregnancy. These ingredients are simply dehydrated forms of whole vegetables and pose no specific risks. The combination creates a highly savory, nutty, and salty mixture designed to be used as a finishing sprinkle.
Addressing Concerns About Poppy Seeds
The main concern surrounding Everything Bagel Seasoning is the presence of poppy seeds. Poppy seeds are harvested from the opium poppy plant. While they do not contain opium, their outer surface can become contaminated with trace amounts of opiate alkaloids, such as morphine and codeine, during harvesting.
The amount of these compounds in a serving of EBS is minimal and poses no known threat to maternal or fetal health. The seeds are generally washed and processed before they are used in commercial food products, further reducing the alkaloid content.
The primary issue is the potential for a false-positive result on a drug screening, particularly a urine test conducted during prenatal visits or near delivery. The sensitivity of these tests is high enough to detect the minute amounts of alkaloids from the poppy seeds. A false-positive result can lead to unnecessary distress. For those who anticipate a drug screening, avoiding the seasoning for several days beforehand can help ensure a clear result.
Monitoring Sodium Content
The salt content is the most significant factor to monitor when consuming Everything Bagel Seasoning. Coarse salt is one of the main ingredients by volume, making the blend highly concentrated in sodium. A typical 1/4 teaspoon serving of a commercial EBS blend can contain between 50 and 70 milligrams of sodium.
While this amount may seem small, it adds up quickly if the seasoning is used heavily or multiple times a day. Excessive sodium intake during pregnancy is a concern because it can contribute to water retention and swelling, known as edema. Consistently high sodium levels can complicate the management of blood pressure.
For individuals with pre-existing hypertension or those at risk for developing preeclampsia, closely monitoring sodium is important. A heavy hand with the seasoning can easily push daily sodium limits. It is advisable to view EBS as a salty condiment and account for its sodium contribution within the overall daily intake.
Guidelines for Safe Consumption
Incorporating Everything Bagel Seasoning safely requires a mindful approach, balancing flavor with health awareness. The key principle is moderation, ensuring the seasoning is used sparingly. Since salt content varies significantly between brands, examine the nutrition label on the specific bottle of EBS you purchase.
Choosing a low-sodium or salt-free version of the blend, if available, can reduce the potential risk without sacrificing the distinct flavor. Balancing the highly salted seasoning with a diet that is generally low in sodium elsewhere helps keep the total daily intake within recommended limits. If you have a history of high blood pressure or are concerned about the implications of poppy seeds on medical testing, discuss your consumption habits with your healthcare provider.