Is burrata made from pasteurised milk always safe during pregnancy?

Yes, burrata made from pasteurised milk is generally considered safe when it has been stored hygienically and consumed fresh.

Can I eat burrata at a restaurant while pregnant?

Yes, but only if the restaurant confirms that the burrata is made from pasteurised milk and has been handled safely.

Can Pregnant Women Eat Burrata Cheese?

Cheese is an excellent source of calcium and protein, making it a valuable part of a balanced pregnancy diet. However, not all cheeses are equally safe to eat during pregnancy. Soft cheeses such as burrata often prompt questions because they can carry a higher risk of bacterial contamination if made with unpasteurised milk. Understanding how to choose and store burrata safely can help expectant mothers enjoy it without unnecessary risk. We spoke to Dr Richa Bharadwaj, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central to decode better.

Is Burrata Cheese Safe During Pregnancy?

We asked the doctor to explain.

Pregnant women can enjoy burrata cheese, but only if it is made from pasteurised milk and has been stored and handled hygienically.Dr Richa Bharadwaj, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai

This advice aligns with recommendations from the NHS, which states that soft cheeses made from pasteurised milk are generally safe during pregnancy, provided they are stored correctly and consumed while fresh.

Why Does Burrata Carry A Higher Risk?

Unlike hard cheeses, burrata is a fresh, soft cheese with a creamy centre and high moisture content. This makes it more susceptible to bacterial growth if hygiene standards are poor.

One of the main concerns is Listeria monocytogenes, the bacterium responsible for listeriosis. According to the CDC, pregnant women are significantly more likely to develop listeriosis than the general population, and the infection can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth or serious illness in newborns.

How To Choose Burrata Safely During Pregnancy

To reduce the risk of food-borne illness:

Check that the label clearly states the cheese is made from pasteurised milk.
Keep burrata refrigerated and consume it before the use-by date.
Eat it soon after opening rather than storing leftovers for several days.
If ordering at a restaurant, ask whether the burrata is prepared using pasteurised milk.
Avoid eating burrata if you are unsure how it has been stored or prepared.

The ACOG also recommends avoiding unpasteurised dairy products during pregnancy because of the risk of food-borne infections.

Burrata cheese can be a safe and enjoyable part of a pregnancy diet when it is made from pasteurised milk, stored correctly and eaten fresh. As Dr Bharadwaj advises, if there is any uncertainty about its source or preparation, it is always safer to choose a cheese that is clearly labelled as pasteurised.

FAQs On Burrata Cheese During Pregnancy

Is burrata made from pasteurised milk always safe during pregnancy?
Yes, burrata made from pasteurised milk is generally considered safe when it has been stored hygienically and consumed fresh.
Can I eat burrata at a restaurant while pregnant?
Yes, but only if the restaurant confirms that the burrata is made from pasteurised milk and has been handled safely.