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Is Fish Safe During Pregnancy in Summer? What to Know

ByShivangi Sarkar
Updated: 3 Jun 2026, 12:51 pm

Fish can be a nutritious part of a pregnancy diet, even in summer, when chosen carefully and cooked well. It provides protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and vitamin D. It's also a part of many normal diets across India. However, there are some types of fish and preparations that pregnant women need to avoid. We'll explain in further detail.

Pregatips
Eating fish during pregnancy can support both maternal nutrition and the baby’s development. However, summer heat increases the risk of food spoilage, making freshness, storage and cooking especially important. The safest approach is to choose low-mercury fish, cook them thoroughly, and avoid seafood from questionable or unhygienic sources.
In this article:

Is It Safe To Eat Fish During Pregnancy In Summer?

Yes, fish can be safe during pregnancy in summer if it is fresh, stored at the right temperature and cooked properly.


Fish can be a healthy and nutritious part of a pregnancy diet, even during summer, provided the right type of fish is chosen, and it is cooked properly. Fish is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, and vitamin D, all of which support the baby’s brain and eye development.Dr C S Mythreyi, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Rainbow Hospital

According to the FDA and EPA, fish provides nutrients that support a child’s brain development, including omega-3 fats, iodine, iron and choline. They recommend choosing fish lower in mercury during pregnancy.


Which Fish Are Safer During Pregnancy?

Pregnant women should focus on low-mercury fish and eat them in moderation.

Safer options may include:

  • Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Rohu and Catla: Common Indian freshwater options
  • Sardines: Small fish with useful nutrients
  • Pomfret: Can be included when fresh and well-cooked
  • Trout: Often considered a lower-mercury choice
“It is generally considered safe for pregnant women to consume 1–2 servings of low-mercury fish per week,” says Dr Mythreyi.


Which Fish Should Pregnant Women Avoid?

High-mercury fish should be limited or avoided.

As per the WHO, mercury exposure can be harmful to the child in utero and early life. Pregnant women should avoid:

  • Shark: Often high in mercury
  • Swordfish: Best avoided during pregnancy
  • King Mackerel: A high-mercury fish
  • Some Tuna: Especially large tuna varieties.
“Excess mercury intake during pregnancy may affect the baby’s developing nervous system,” says Dr Mythreyi.


Summer Food Safety Tips For Eating Fish

Follow these precautions:

  • Cook Thoroughly: Avoid raw or undercooked seafood
  • Avoid Raw Sushi: Raw fish may carry infection risks
  • Check Freshness: Avoid fish with a strong smell or poor storage
  • Be Careful Outside: Avoid seafood from unhygienic places
Fish can be a valuable pregnancy food, but summer demands extra caution. Choose low-mercury varieties, cook them properly and avoid raw or poorly stored seafood. If unsure about a fish variety or food source, ask a doctor before including it in your pregnancy diet.


FAQs On Eating Fish During Pregnancy In Summer

  1. Can Pregnant Women Eat Fish In Summer?
    Yes, if it is fresh, low in mercury and thoroughly cooked.
  2. Can Pregnant Women Eat Raw Fish?
    No, raw or undercooked seafood should be avoided due to infection risks.

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