Accidentally eating deli meat during pregnancy is a common worry for many expectant mothers. Understanding the potential risks and knowing what steps to take is important for food safety. Being informed about the issues and appropriate actions can help alleviate anxiety.
The Primary Concern: Listeria
Deli meats are a concern during pregnancy due to Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium causing listeriosis. Unlike other foodborne bacteria, Listeria can grow at refrigerated temperatures, making ready-to-eat foods like deli meats a potential source. It is commonly found in soil, water, and animals.
Pregnant individuals are 10 to 20 times more susceptible to listeriosis than the general population due to changes in the immune system during pregnancy.
If infected, Listeria can cross the placenta, posing serious risks to the developing fetus. Listeriosis can lead to severe complications, including miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in the newborn. For the infant, the infection can result in low birth weight, blood infections, meningitis, and long-term health problems such as intellectual disability, paralysis, seizures, blindness, or organ damage.
Identifying Potential Symptoms
Symptoms of listeriosis in pregnant individuals vary, often appearing mild and flu-like, making diagnosis challenging. These may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headache. The incubation period can range from a few days to several weeks, or up to two months.
If the infection spreads to the nervous system, more severe symptoms can develop, such as a stiff neck, confusion, loss of balance, or convulsions. Even if a pregnant person experiences only mild symptoms or none at all, the infection can still be passed to the fetus.
Any fever or flu-like symptoms during pregnancy should be taken seriously. Contact a healthcare provider if such symptoms occur, especially if Listeria exposure is possible. Early recognition and treatment are important for better outcomes.
What to Do After Eating Deli Meat
If deli meat was consumed, consider if it was heated. Heating deli meats to 165°F (74°C), or until steaming hot, effectively kills Listeria bacteria. If thoroughly heated, the risk of listeriosis is significantly reduced.
If cold deli meat was eaten and you have no symptoms, the probability of listeriosis is statistically low, though the risk is elevated during pregnancy. If flu-like symptoms, fever, or other concerning signs develop, contact a healthcare provider promptly. They can assess the situation and determine if testing is necessary.
A healthcare provider might recommend a blood test, such as a blood culture, to check for Listeria infection. If listeriosis is diagnosed, antibiotics are prescribed. Prompt treatment can help reduce complications for both mother and baby.
General Food Safety for Expectant Mothers
Beyond deli meats, general food safety practices can help reduce the risk of listeriosis and other foodborne illnesses during pregnancy. Avoid unpasteurized milk and dairy products, including soft cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Mexican-style cheeses, unless cooked until steaming hot. Refrigerated pâtés, meat spreads, and smoked seafood should also be avoided unless incorporated into a cooked dish.
Proper food handling and storage are important. Keep your refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) to slow bacterial growth. Perishable foods, including leftovers, should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food, and prevent cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meats and ready-to-eat foods.
Thoroughly cooking meats, poultry, and seafood to their recommended internal temperatures is a safety measure. Ensuring food is cooked properly can eliminate potential bacterial contamination. Adhering to these guidelines helps create a safer eating environment throughout pregnancy.