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Can Pregnant Women Eat Processed Cheese and Cheese Slices? A Doctor Explains

ByShivangi Sarkar
Updated: 30 Jun 2026, 11:59 am

Processed cheese and cheese slices are generally safe during pregnancy if they are made from pasteurised milk, stored correctly and eaten before expiry. However, they can be high in salt and saturated fat, so moderation matters. Always read labels and avoid unpasteurised or spoiled cheese products. We consulted a doctor, to explain in detail.

Pregatips
Cheese slices, spreads and processed cheese blocks are common in sandwiches, parathas and quick snacks. During pregnancy, the main question is whether they are safe from infection risk and whether they are nutritious enough to eat regularly. The answer depends on pasteurisation, storage and portion size.
In this article:

Is Processed Cheese Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, commercially packaged processed cheese is usually safe if the label confirms it is made from pasteurised milk.


In most cases, processed cheese products and cheese slices are safe to eat during pregnancy. These products are typically made from pasteurised milk, which significantly reduces the risk of harmful bacterial infections such as listeriosis.Dr Jasleen Kaur Malhotra, Senior Consultant – Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Dwarka

According to ACOG, pregnant women should avoid raw, unpasteurised milk and foods made from it, but soft cheeses made with pasteurised milk are safe to eat.

As per the CDC, pregnant women are more likely to become ill from foodborne germs such as Listeria, and unpasteurised milk or cheese is among the riskier foods. This is why label checking is essential.



What To Check Before Eating Cheese Slices

Before buying or eating processed cheese:

  • Check for Pasteurised Milk: Avoid any cheese made from unpasteurised milk unless thoroughly cooked.
  • Check Expiry Date: Do not eat expired cheese or products with damaged packaging.
  • Store Properly: Keep cheese refrigerated after opening.
  • Avoid Spoilage: Discard cheese that smells sour, looks mouldy or has changed texture.
  • Eat in Moderation: Processed cheese can be high in sodium and saturated fat.

It is important to read product labels carefully. While most processed cheeses are pasteurised, some speciality cheeses may not be.Dr Jasleen Kaur Malhotra, Senior Consultant – Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Dwarka

Nutrition Benefits Of Processed Cheese Slices

Processed cheese can provide calcium and protein, but it is not the only dairy option. The NHS lists processed cheese spreads and pasteurised dairy products as foods that can be eaten during pregnancy, while advising caution with certain mould-ripened and blue cheeses unless cooked until steaming hot.

For better nutrition, include pasteurised milk, curd, paneer, yoghurt and hard cheeses such as cheddar. These provide calcium and protein without relying too heavily on processed products.

If you are unsure about a cheese product, check the label or ask your doctor.


FAQs On Processed Cheese During Pregnancy

  1. Can I Eat Cheese Slices While Pregnant?
    Yes, if they are made from pasteurised milk, stored correctly and eaten before expiry.
  2. Which Cheese Should I Avoid During Pregnancy?
    Avoid cheese made from unpasteurised milk and certain soft or blue cheeses unless cooked until steaming hot.

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