Pregnancy food guidance
Burger
Depends—Cook to 160°F
A ground-beef burger should reach 160°F during pregnancy.
What changes the answer for Burger
- Rare or medium-rare burger: avoid.
- Use a food thermometer rather than color.
- Cheese should be pasteurized.
Why it matters for Burger
Grinding can distribute bacteria throughout the meat.
Practical takeaway
Ask for a burger cooked to 160°F.
Sources and review details
- Review status
- Source reviewed
- Last reviewed
- Guidance region
- United States
- CDC: Safer Food Choices (opens in a new tab)Checked
- FDA: Eating Out and Bringing In (opens in a new tab)Checked
- The Bump: Top Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy (opens in a new tab)Checked Medically reviewed by Kendra Segura, MD