Can You Eat Jerky While Pregnant?

March 16, 2023 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

There are no definitive studies on the safety of consuming jerky while pregnant, so it is best to err on the side of caution. Jerky is typically made from lean cuts of meat that have been trimmed of fat and marinated in a mixture of spices and salt before being dried or smoked. This process can create a product that is high in sodium and potentially harmful bacteria.

If you are pregnant and crave jerky, look for brands that are made with lean cuts of meat, minimal seasoning, and no added preservatives.

• Choose a high-quality jerky made with lean cuts of meat
• Avoid any jerky that contains preservatives, MSG, or other additives
• If possible, opt for grass-fed beef or organic chicken jerky
• Cut the jerky into small pieces to make it easier to chew and digest
• Eat in moderation – stick to one or two small pieces per day

Can you eat beef jerky while pregnant?

Why Can’T You Eat Beef Jerky While Pregnant

Pregnant women are often told to avoid certain foods that could potentially harm their developing baby. So, what about beef jerky? Is it safe for pregnant women to eat or should it be avoided?

Beef jerky is made from dried, cured meat that has been seasoned and then smoked. While the smoking process does help to preserve the meat, it also adds potential risks for pregnant women. For example, some of the chemicals used in the smoke flavorings have been linked to cancer.

Additionally, jerky is a high-sodium food, which can lead to water retention and swelling (a common complaint during pregnancy). So, while beef jerky may not be the healthiest snack option for pregnant women, it is probably not going to cause any harm if consumed in moderation. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, there are plenty of other options out there!

Credit: prevailjerky.com

Why Can’T Pregnant People Have Beef Jerky?

If you’re pregnant, you may have heard that you shouldn’t eat beef jerky. But is this true? Let’s take a closer look at why beef jerky may not be the best food for pregnant women.

Beef jerky is made from dried and cured meat, which means it contains high levels of sodium and nitrates. These additives can help preserve the meat, but they can also increase your risk of developing hypertension or preeclampsia (a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy). In addition, beef jerky is often made from ground meat, which can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli.

If these bacteria are ingested, they can cause severe illness in both mother and child. For these reasons, it’s best to avoid beef jerky altogether during pregnancy.

What Snacks to Avoid While Pregnant?

There are certain snacks that you should avoid while pregnant, as they can be harmful to you and your baby. Here is a list of some of the worst offenders: 1. Raw fish or shellfish – These can contain bacteria or viruses that can be dangerous for you and your baby.

If you must eat them, make sure they are cooked thoroughly. 2. Soft cheese – Unpasteurized soft cheeses can harbor bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Avoid these unless they are labeled as pasteurized.

3. Caffeine – Too much caffeine can lead to dehydration and increase the risk of miscarriage. Stick to moderate amounts or cut it out altogether if possible. 4. Alcohol – Drinking alcohol during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage and birth defects .

It’s best to abstain from alcohol altogether during pregnancy .

Does Beef Jerky Have Listeria?

No, beef jerky does not have listeria. Listeria is a bacteria that can cause food poisoning, and it is typically found in contaminated meat or poultry products. However, beef jerky is made from dried beef that has been cured or smoked, which kills any bacteria that may be present.

Thus, there is no risk of contracting food poisoning from eating beef jerky.

Is Beef Jerky Pasteurized?

No, beef jerky is not pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process of heating food to a high temperature for a short period of time in order to kill bacteria. Beef jerky is made by drying meat, which does not require pasteurization.

Conclusion

Pregnant women are often bombarded with a lot of advice, both from well-meaning friends and family members and from total strangers. One topic that comes up quite frequently is whether or not pregnant women can eat jerky. The short answer is yes, you can eat jerky while pregnant.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that the jerky is fully cooked. Raw or undercooked meat can be dangerous for pregnant women (and everyone else!).

Second, watch out for added salt or other seasonings that could cause problems for you or your baby. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own Jerky at home using lean cuts of meat and a food dehydrator.