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Deli & Prepared Foods

Deli Meat

caution - Eat with Care

Only safe if heated until steaming hot (165°F) to kill potential listeria

DG
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Sarah Mitchell, M.D., ob-gyn

What You Need to Know

Deli meats, lunch meats, and cold cuts can harbor listeria bacteria.

Listeria can grow even in refrigerated foods and survive in deli environments.

To eat safely, heat deli meats until steaming hot (internal temp of 165°F) which kills listeria.

This includes turkey, ham, roast beef, salami, and other sliced meats.

Tips & Recommendations

  • Microwave deli meat sandwiches until the meat is steaming
  • Consider freshly cooked meat sliced at home as an alternative
  • Hot sandwiches from restaurants are safe if the meat is served hot

Important Disclaimer

This information provides general guidance based on current medical recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider or ob-gyn about your specific dietary needs during pregnancy, as individual health conditions and pregnancy complications may affect what foods are safe for you.

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