Can you eat fried eggs when pregnant?

Are you pregnant and craving fried eggs? But are you actually allowed to eat them? That's the big question we set out to answer! We tell you everything you need to know about whether or not you can eat them during pregnancy. And are there any risks for your baby? We cover the whole topic.

Can you eat fried eggs when pregnant? An overview in a few lines

At the risk of surprising you — the answer is yes, you can. You often hear people say you absolutely must not! That it's dangerous! That you should steer well clear! But that shouldn't be taken as gospel. In fact, eggs during pregnancy are perfectly allowed. However, there are some precautions to take, naturally.

Precautions to take if you want to eat fried eggs whilst pregnant

If you have a strong craving for a lovely plate of fried eggs, you can absolutely go ahead — but a few precautions are necessary. You will need to make sure your fried eggs are thoroughly cooked. This will help prevent any risks. It is also worth noting that preparations using raw eggs, such as homemade mayonnaise or homemade chocolate mousse, should be eaten straight after being made. Be careful not to store them in the fridge for too long. But when we talk about risks, what exactly are they?

What are the potential risks of eating eggs during pregnancy?

The risk of eating undercooked or raw eggs is the presence of salmonella bacteria, which is eliminated only by cooking. If fried eggs are not cooked thoroughly enough, salmonella can cause gastric and intestinal problems, typically accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and even diarrhoea. So, there is no objection to eating them — as long as you cook them carefully. And to take the thinking a step further, do know that eggs are actually recommended during pregnancy.

Eggs recommended during pregnancy

Yes indeed — despite the common misconceptions, eggs during pregnancy are actually recommended! Specifically for the nutrients they provide. Eggs, whether fried or hard-boiled, are an excellent source of protein. These are particularly important for the role they play.

Indeed, they help to build and renew the body's tissues, including those that develop and change during pregnancy — namely the uterus, the placenta, and the amniotic fluid.

Eggs also provide certain nutrients that are essential for pregnant women, such as iodine and iron. Iodine is vital for the baby's growth and development, as well as for regulating brain development and the nervous system. Iron, meanwhile, is equally important for the pregnant woman, given the increase in blood volume. As a result, the body needs more iron to ensure that the organs function properly. In short, it is entirely up to you whether you want to boost your nutrient intake with a well-cooked egg every now and then.