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Can I eat shrimp while pregnant?

Properly cooked shrimp is a lower-mercury seafood choice during pregnancy.

Pregnancy food guidance

Shrimp

Usually OK—When cooked

Properly cooked shrimp is a lower-mercury seafood choice during pregnancy.

What changes the answer for Shrimp

  • Cook until the flesh is pearly or white and opaque.
  • Keep chilled shrimp cold.
  • Avoid raw or undercooked shrimp.

Why it matters for Shrimp

FDA lists shrimp among lower-mercury Best Choices, while CDC recommends fully cooked shellfish.

Practical takeaway

Choose thoroughly cooked shrimp and keep it refrigerated.

Sources and review details
Review status
Source reviewed
Last reviewed
Guidance region
United States