Can You Eat Crawfish While Pregnant – Benefits & Safety Tips

With all the rules around pregnancy diets, it’s easy to feel like you need a degree in nutrition just to enjoy a meal. Some foods are obvious no-gos, while others leave you second-guessing. Seafood, in particular, can be tricky; it’s packed with nutrients but also comes with concerns about mercury. Crawfish, a favourite for many, often leave expectant mothers wondering, Can I eat crawfish while pregnant? Don’t worry; we’re here to crack open the truth. In this article, we’ll break down the facts, safety guidelines, and best ways to enjoy crawfish during pregnancy. Keep reading because when it comes to crawfish, you deserve more than just fishy advice!

Can Pregnant Women Eat Crawfish?

If you’re pregnant (or even if you’re not!), it’s best to stick to fully cooked crawfish. Raw or undercooked shellfish can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, such as Vibrio and Listeria, which can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses. As long as they’re cooked all the way through, they’re perfectly safe to enjoy (1) (2).

Mercury in Crawfish

Crawfish are considered a low-mercury seafood (2). On average, crawfish contain around 0.033 parts per million (ppm) of mercury, which is well below the FDA’s limit of 1.0 ppm for safe consumption (3).

How Much Crawfish Can You Eat When Pregnant?

If you’re pregnant and craving crawfish, you’re in luck! The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) recommends that pregnant women eat 8 to 12 ounces of low-mercury seafood like crawfish per week (2). This is about 2 to 3 servings. Sticking to this limit helps you enjoy the benefits of crawfish when pregnant while keeping mercury exposure low.

What Are the Benefits of Eating Crawfish During Pregnancy?

Crawfish can be a nutritious addition to a pregnancy diet when enjoyed in moderation. It’s a lean source of protein, low in fat and saturated fats, making it a healthy choice for mom-to-be. Plus, it’s packed with essential nutrients, including (2):

• Iron
• Selenium
• Copper
• Niacin (Vitamin B3)
• Trace amounts of vitamins A and C

Some Crawfish Dishes and Their Pregnancy Safety

Crawfish is a popular seafood enjoyed in various dishes, especially in Southern cuisine. Let’s go over some favourite crawfish dishes and find out if they’re okay to enjoy during pregnancy.

1. Boiled Crawfish

Boiled crawfish is a classic dish that is generally safe during pregnancy when cooked thoroughly and enjoyed in moderation. However, pregnant women should avoid excessive seasoning that may lead to heartburn.

2. Crawfish Étouffée

Crawfish étouffée is a rich, stew-like dish with crawfish tails, vegetables, and a roux. Since it’s typically cooked thoroughly, it’s considered safe for pregnant women.

3. Crawfish Sandwich

A crawfish sandwich typically consists of cooked or fried crawfish served on bread or a bun with toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sauce. As long as the crawfish is fully cooked and the sandwich isn’t overly greasy or high in sodium, it is safe to eat during pregnancy.

Tips for Preparing Crawfish While Pregnant

While crawfish in pregnancy can be a nutritious treat, it’s essential to prepare it safely to avoid any risks for you and your baby. Follow these simple tips to make sure your meal is both delicious and safe.

1. Cook Thoroughly

Make sure your crawfish are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (62.8°C). They should turn a bright red colour, and the flesh should be opaque and firm. Cooking seafood to the right temperature kills harmful bacteria and parasites, reducing the risk of foodborne illness (4) (5).

2. Avoid Cross-Contamination

When preparing crawfish, keep raw seafood separate from other foods. Use separate cutting boards and utensils to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria. Wash your hands and all surfaces thoroughly after handling raw seafood (6).

FAQs

1. Can I eat leftover crawfish while pregnant?

Leftover crawfish should be properly refrigerated and reheated to at least 165°F (73.9°C) before consumption to prevent bacterial growth (5). Avoid eating leftovers stored for more than one or two days.

2. Can eating crawfish cause heartburn during pregnancy?

Yes, spicy or heavily seasoned crawfish dishes may trigger heartburn in pregnant women, especially in the third trimester. If you’re prone to acid reflux, opt for milder seasonings and avoid fried or heavily spiced crawfish (7).

3. Is it safe to eat crawfish from restaurants or street vendors?

Eating crawfish from trusted, hygienic sources is best to avoid foodborne illnesses. If eating from a restaurant or street vendor, ensure the seafood is fresh, properly cooked, and stored at safe temperatures.

Always trust your instincts; if something doesn’t sit well with you, it’s okay to skip it. Pregnancy is a time to nourish yourself and your baby, so enjoy your meals and make choices that keep you feeling your best. Craving crawfish? Go ahead; pregnancy and crawfish can be a delicious combination; just make sure it’s cooked properly and eaten in moderation!

References/Resources:

1. National Library of Medicine – Eating Raw, Undercooked, or Cold Meats and Seafood

2. Food and Drug Administration – Advice about Eating Fish

3. Food and Drug Administration – Mercury Levels in Commercial Fish and Shellfish (1990-2012)

4. Food and Drug Administration – Questions & Answers from the FDA/EPA Advice about Eating Fish for Those Who Might Become or Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding and Children Ages 1 to 11 Years

5. U.S. Department of Agriculture – Safe Minimum Internal Temperature Chart

6. Food and Drug Administration – Selecting and Serving Fresh and Frozen Seafood Safely

7. Cleveland Clinic – Heartburn During Pregnancy

Also Read:

Eating Fish during Pregnancy
Eating Shrimp while Pregnant
Consuming Crab during Pregnancy
Is it Safe to Eat Calamari in Pregnancy
Consuming Sea Bass during Pregnancy