As a pediatric dietitian, food safety for moms-to-be is my specialty. As you navigate this exciting time, it’s important to pay close attention to nutrition. This guide has a list of 10 foods that you should not eat while you’re pregnant and explains why. It also has my advice on the best foods to eat while you’re pregnant.
I’m often asked about the best foods to eat when pregnant. This is why I created the ultimate pregnancy nutrition guide. With that said, most foods are completely safe for pregnant women to enjoy without worry. But there are some foods that you should not eat while you are pregnant or even if you are trying to get pregnant.
Can You Eat Taylor Ham When Pregnant? A Complete Guide for Expecting Moms
Pregnancy is filled with many food cravings and aversions If you’re from New Jersey, one of your cravings may be for a tasty Taylor Ham sandwich. But is this processed meat safe to eat during pregnancy?
As an expectant mom you want to make the healthiest choices for your growing baby. However you don’t have to completely give up all your favorite foods either. The key is moderation and making informed decisions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about eating Taylor Ham while pregnant.
What is Taylor Ham?
Taylor Ham, also known as pork roll, is a processed meat product invented in 1856 in Trenton, New Jersey. It’s a cured, smoked, and seasoned pork-based lunch meat.
Taylor Ham is a beloved New Jersey staple frequently enjoyed in breakfast sandwiches with egg and cheese. It’s also used as a pizza topping, on burgers, and more.
This iconic processed meat has a distinct salty, smoky, savory taste unlike any other lunch meat.
Is Taylor Ham Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?
The main safety concern with deli meats like Taylor Ham during pregnancy is the risk of listeria food poisoning. Listeria is a harmful bacteria that can cause flu-like symptoms in pregnant women. It can also lead to serious complications like miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm labor.
To reduce your risk:
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Choose pre-packaged Taylor Ham and check the label to ensure it’s free of listeria. Avoid meat sliced fresh at the deli counter.
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Cook Taylor Ham thoroughly until steaming hot before eating. This kills any bacteria present.
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Don’t eat Taylor Ham that’s been sitting out for more than 2 hours or stored above 40°F.
As long as these precautions are taken, enjoying Taylor Ham in moderation during pregnancy is considered safe by most healthcare providers.
Potential Risks of Eating Taylor Ham While Pregnant
While the listeria risk can be managed, there are some other potential risks to keep in mind:
High Sodium Content
Like many processed meats, Taylor Ham is high in sodium. Consuming too much sodium during pregnancy can contribute to elevated blood pressure, swelling, and other complications.
Nitrates/Nitrites
These preservatives are commonly used in cured meats like Taylor Ham. Some studies link nitrite consumption to an increased risk of cancer and other adverse health effects. However, experts say typical dietary nitrite intake is unlikely to be a health concern.
Weight Gain
Taylor Ham is high in calories, fat, and sodium, so overdoing it can quickly lead to excessive weight gain during pregnancy. It’s best to enjoy it in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) encourages pregnant women to limit processed meat intake due to these potential risks.
Healthier Ways to Enjoy Taylor Ham While Pregnant
To indulge your Taylor Ham craving as safely as possible:
- Choose low-sodium varieties whenever possible
- Enjoy in a breakfast sandwich on whole grain bread
- Pair with plenty of veggies like tomatoes, spinach, and avocado
- Limit to 2-3 servings per week at most
- Microwave deli-sliced Taylor Ham for at least 30 seconds before eating
Also be sure to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to help minimize fluid retention from the sodium.
Other Healthy Pork Alternatives to Try
If you decide to avoid Taylor Ham altogether, there are plenty of other healthy ways to get your pork fix while pregnant:
- Lean pork tenderloin or chops
- Canadian bacon or ham
- Prosciutto
- Pork-based snacks like jerky or rinds
- Soy-based meat alternatives like tofu dogs
Be sure to prep all pork products thoroughly by cooking to an internal temperature of at least 145°F.
Should You Avoid Taylor Ham Entirely While Pregnant?
Current guidelines do not prohibit processed meats like Taylor Ham entirely during pregnancy. The risks can be well-managed through proper handling, cooking, and portion control.
However, some women decide to avoid Taylor Ham and other deli meats as an extra precaution. This is a personal decision that depends on your risk tolerance and preferences.
If Taylor Ham holds a special place in your heart, indulging a couple times a month is unlikely to cause harm if you take the recommended precautions. But if you have any concerns, check with your doctor about what’s right for you.
Key Takeaways on Eating Taylor Ham While Pregnant
Here are some key tips to safely enjoy Taylor Ham during pregnancy:
- Cook thoroughly until steaming hot
- Choose pre-packaged varieties and check for listeria
- Limit to 2-3 servings per week at most
- Pair with veggies and whole grains
- Opt for low-sodium when possible
- Microwave deli-sliced meats before eating
- Stay hydrated to minimize sodium-related issues
While giving up favorites like Taylor Ham can be tough for moms-to-be, the most important thing is making sure that you and your growing baby stay healthy.
With some mindful precautions and moderation, enjoying Taylor Ham occasionally can be done without putting your pregnancy at risk. As always, discuss any concerns with your OB-GYN to help make the best decision for you.
What About Ahi Tuna?
Be careful here. The word “ahi” can mean either yellowfin tuna or bigeye tuna. If it means bigeye tuna, you should not eat it. If you are offered ahi tuna, find out which species it really is.
Can you Eat Deer (venison) while pregnant?
Venison and deer are a lean and tasty meat source. But many pregnant women wonder if this type of game meat is ok to consume. The good news is that you can eat venison while you’re pregnant as long as it’s cooked to 145°F (62°C). 8°C) for meat, 160°F (71. 1°C) for ground venison and sausages, and 165°F (73. 9°C) for others (use a meat thermometer to be sure!).
Are deli meats safe during pregnancy? Dietitian explains
FAQ
Is Taylor ham cooked?
What deli meats are safe during pregnancy?
Is it safe to eat ham during pregnancy?
Is Taylor ham processed meat?
Can you eat ham during pregnancy?
Here’s the bottom line on ham (and other deli meats) during pregnancy: Nearly all types of food can carry listeria, not just deli meats. According to the CDC, pregnant women are ten times more likely to get sick from listeria. However, listeriosis, while very serious, is still extremely rare.
Can you eat deli meat during pregnancy?
Women are typically told to avoid all deli meats during pregnancy, but that’s a myth. However, it IS best practice to heat deli meats before eating and avoid eating raw meat and raw shellfish during pregnancy. Because ham is commonly consumed around the holidays, I’m dedicating this post to discussing whether it’s safe to eat ham while pregnant.
Is Ham safe to eat if you have a baby?
Opt for fully cooked ham products. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Ham: Steer clear of raw or undercooked ham, including products like prosciutto and Parma ham, as they may contain harmful pathogens that can affect you and your baby. Storage and Handling: Practice proper food safety by storing ham at safe temperatures and preventing cross-contamination.
Why is Ham important during pregnancy?
Protein: Ham is a good source of protein, which is essential for the growth and development of your baby. It helps in building and repairing tissues. Iron: Iron is crucial during pregnancy as it helps in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your baby.