Pregnancy food guidance
Clams
Usually OK—When fully cooked
Fully cooked clams are a lower-mercury seafood choice during pregnancy.
What changes the answer for Clams
- Cook in the shell until the shells open.
- Discard shells that do not open during cooking.
- Cook shucked clam meat until opaque.
Why it matters for Clams
FDA lists clams among lower-mercury choices, while raw shellfish can carry harmful germs.
Practical takeaway
Choose clams served fully cooked and steaming hot.
Sources and review details
- Review status
- Source reviewed
- Last reviewed
- Guidance region
- United States