Is Sushi Safe While Pregnant?

Sorry, my harajuku girls who love their sashimi, but you gotta lay the chopsticks down for a few months until that bun’s done in the oven.  (At least for some kinds of sushi, that is.)

Why isn’t sushi safe while pregnant?

According to OTIS (Organization for Teratology Information Services), raw fish can contain parasites and bacteria which a normal body can easily fight off but which a pregnant mom’s suppressed immune system might not be able to deal with. Also, some larger fish such as mackerel, salmon and tuna have high levels of mercury and other heavy metals, depending on where the fish was obtained (farmed fish have higher concentrations than wild-caught fish), which are very dangerous for a developing brain.

There could also be issues with cleanliness in the storing, preparation and service of raw foods. Although the chances of any of these issues troubling you in particular are extremely low, it’s always best to err on the side of caution when it’s not just your health on the line.

However, all is not lost, my little sushi addicts: a California roll is still perfectly safe, as are rolls made without fish or with cooked seafood. So enjoy what you can while you’re pregnant, and rest easy in the knowledge that you’re making the best decisions for you and your baby.  Many meat teryaki rolls, tempura and veggie rolls are available.  Swap the white for brown rice and you’re even better off.  The seaweed wraps are filled with anti-oxidents and goodness and there are plenty of non-raw choices in most restaurants.  So enjoy what you and and put the spicy tuna on your wishlist for the first post-birth feast!