Ricotta Cheese in Pregnancy – Is It Safe?

Ricotta and pregnancy can be a safe combination when the cheese is made from pasteurised milk and handled properly. Pregnant women should avoid ricotta made with unpasteurised milk because it may contain harmful bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause serious pregnancy complications. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pregnant women are about 10 times more likely than the general population to develop listeriosis (1). In this article, you’ll learn whether ricotta cheese is safe during pregnancy, its nutritional benefits, possible risks, how to choose safe varieties, and tips for enjoying ricotta throughout pregnancy.

What Is Ricotta Cheese?

Ricotta cheese, a product originating from Italy, is made from the milk whey of various animals, including sheep, goats, cows, or Italian water buffalo. The process of making ricotta cheese is similar to that of regular cheese. After the cheese-making process, the remaining whey milk is transformed into ricotta cheese through coagulation.

Can You Have Ricotta When Pregnant?

So, here’s good news for all cheese lovers! Yes, it is safe to eat certain varieties of cheeses during pregnancy. Cheese is considered a healthy and nutritious element of our daily diet, but you must be very careful when you are pregnant. While certain cheeses are safe during pregnancy, others carry the threat of listeria, a bacteria that can harm your baby (2). It is better to avoid tender, ripened, and blue-veined types of cheese during pregnancy as it might contain harmful bacteria. Some cheeses like ricotta and stilton are safe to consume during pregnancy. Consuming cooked ricotta when pregnant may reduce the risk of bacteria entering your body. However, talking to your doctor before including it in your diet is highly recommended.

How Much Ricotta Can You Eat During Pregnancy?

A moderate serving of around ¼ to ½ cup (60-120 grams) of ricotta can be a healthy addition to meals, providing protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. However, portion sizes may vary depending on your overall diet, calorie needs, and how much dairy you consume from other sources.

Benefits of Ricotta Cheese for Pregnant Women

Ricotta cheese provides a range of benefits for pregnant women, making it a nutritious addition to their diet. Its rich content of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins supports both maternal health and fetal development (3). The benefits of consuming ricotta while pregnant include:

1. Protein

Proteins help build lean muscles and keep them healthy. Ricotta is considered a rich source of protein. Consuming ricotta cheese during pregnancy helps form new cells and tissues and also releases certain essential hormones.

2. Calcium

Calcium is essential for strong and healthy bones, so adequate calcium intake during pregnancy is vital. Consuming ricotta cheese during pregnancy will help maintain the health of your bones and develop the bones of your growing baby (4).

3. Selenium

Ricotta cheese is rich in selenium, which helps increase progesterone levels and decrease TPO antibody levels during pregnancy.

4. Vitamins

Consuming half a cup of ricotta cheese will fulfil approximately 11% of vitamin A, 14% of Riboflavin, and 7% of vitamin B12 in the daily recommended intake. These vitamins have their own benefits during pregnancy; Riboflavin helps maintain healthy eyes and skin, vitamin B12 helps prevent birth defects, and vitamin A boosts the immunity of the growing embryo.

5. Carbohydrates and Energy Sources

Skimmed milk ricotta cheese or fat-free ricotta is an excellent source of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are essential during pregnancy and are considered the primary energy source in the diet. It plays a unique role in the overall development and support of the growing baby.

6. Omega Fatty Acids

Ricotta cheese is a rich source of both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Omega fatty acids are known to positively affect pregnancy, especially the visual and cognitive development of the baby.

Drawbacks of Consuming Ricotta While Pregnant

While ricotta cheese can be a tasty and nutritious option for pregnant women, it has its share of drawbacks:

• Ricotta cheese produced from whole milk is high in fat, which can hinder a baby’s potential brain development. So, avoid ricotta cheese made from whole milk.
• Ricotta cheese has a high sodium content. If you are advised to be on a low-salt diet, then Ricotta cheese is better avoided or taken in very tiny amounts during pregnancy. If you want to eat ricotta cheese, eat it in less quantity. Excessive salt during pregnancy can lead to water retention and bloating.

Cooked vs Raw Ricotta: Which Is Safer?

Cooked ricotta is a safer choice during pregnancy, especially when heated until steaming hot. Pasteurised ricotta can usually be eaten without cooking, but unpasteurised or raw ricotta should be avoided because it may contain harmful bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes.

Ricotta Cheese Recipes to Try During Pregnancy

You can enjoy these delicious recipes with ricotta once you have confirmed with your doctor that ricotta cheese should be included in your diet. If any of the ingredients used here are not part of your diet, then feel free to substitute them.

1. Ricotta and Yoghurt Parfait

This delicious recipe is perfect for breakfast or a mid-meal snack. This lip-smacking parfait is loaded with the goodness of fibre, protein, magnesium, vitamin E, antioxidants, and vitamin C, as well as all the benefits of ricotta. Fibre aids in digestion, and the vitamins keep you healthy throughout your pregnancy (5).

Ingredients

• 3/4th cup of low-fat Greek yoghurt (any flavour)
• 1/4th cup of skimmed milk ricotta cheese
• ½ cup lemon zest
• 1/4th cup raspberries
• 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

How to Cook

1. Combine yoghurt, ricotta cheese, and lemon zest.
2. Top it with raspberries, almonds, and chia seeds. And it’s ready to serve!

2. Lemon-Thyme Flavoured Whipped Ricotta

A rich and creamy appetiser can be served with whole-wheat crackers, veggies or just as a dip. It contains thyme, which possesses medicinal and anti-microbial properties, and chives, again rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (6).

Ingredients

• 30 g of skimmed ricotta
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons minced shallot or chives
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1/4th cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon fresh pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

How to Cook

1. Blend the mentioned ingredients (except olive oil) and puree them until smooth.
2. Once ready, transfer it into a serving bowl and drizzle with olive oil and thyme. And you are good to go!

3. Ricotta and Tomato Bruschetta

This simple appetiser or snack is bursting with flavour and nutrients. Tomatoes provide vitamins A and C, while ricotta offers protein and calcium (7). It’s a satisfying option for any time of day.

Ingredients

• Baguette or crusty bread, sliced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Cook

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the sliced baguette or bread on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Toast in the oven until lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Mix ricotta cheese, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Spread the ricotta mixture onto the toasted bread slices.
5. Drizzle with more olive oil and garnish with additional basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

4. Ricotta and Berry Stuffed French Toast

Upgrade your breakfast with this decadent stuffed French toast filled with creamy ricotta cheese and sweet berries. It’s a treat for your taste buds and a nutritious way to start your day.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of bread (such as brioche or challah)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), sliced
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Butter for cooking
• Maple syrup for serving

How to Cook

1. Mix ricotta cheese and sliced berries in a bowl until well combined.
2. Spread the ricotta and berry mixture evenly onto two slices of bread, then top with the remaining two slices to form sandwiches.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
5. Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook the stuffed French toast sandwiches until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.

5. Ricotta and Herb Dip

This flavourful dip is a versatile addition to any table. With a creamy base of ricotta cheese and a blend of herbs, it’s quick to prepare and pairs well with a variety of accompaniments, from fresh vegetables to crispy crackers.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped chives
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick

How to Cook

1. Combine ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, chopped chives, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the dip.
6. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes for added heat.
7. Serve with sliced vegetables, crackers, or breadsticks for dipping.
8. Enjoy your flavourful ricotta and herb dip!

Alternatives to Ricotta Cheese in Pregnancy

If you prefer to avoid ricotta during pregnancy or simply want to try other options, there are several safe and nutritious alternatives to consider. Choose pasteurised varieties and check labels to ensure they are suitable for pregnancy (8).

• Cottage Cheese: A protein-rich alternative with a similar creamy texture that works well in savoury dishes and snacks.
• Cream Cheese: A smooth option for spreads, desserts, and recipes, as long as it is made from pasteurised milk.
• Mascarpone: A creamy cheese that can replace ricotta in desserts and some cooked dishes when pasteurised.
• Greek Yoghurt: A high-protein alternative that can add creaminess to recipes while providing calcium and probiotics.

When to Consult a Doctor

While ricotta cheese can be a tasty addition to your pregnancy diet, it’s crucial to be cautious about food safety, especially regarding pregnancy and ricotta cheese. You should consult your doctor promptly if you experience any concerning symptoms after consuming ricotta or other food during pregnancy. Symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or any signs of foodborne illness should not be ignored (9).

FAQs

1. Can I eat ricotta cheese in the first trimester?

Yes, you can eat ricotta cheese during the first trimester if it is made from pasteurised milk and stored safely. It can provide protein and calcium during this important stage of pregnancy.

2. Is homemade ricotta safe during pregnancy?

Homemade ricotta can be safe if it is prepared using pasteurised milk and hygienic methods. Avoid recipes that use raw or unpasteurised milk.

3. How can I tell if ricotta cheese is safe to eat?

Check the packaging to confirm it is made from pasteurised milk. Also, make sure it is within the expiry date and has been stored correctly.

Pregnancy and ricotta cheese can go hand in hand, offering a delicious and nutritious option for expectant mothers when consumed safely. Always consult your doctor before altering or including anything new to your diet. Do try out these yummy recipes and let us know how they turn out.

Also Read: 

Eating Butter in Pregnancy
Eating Pizza during Pregnancy
Can You Eat Blue Cheese while Pregnant?
Is It Safe To Eat Goat Cheese when Pregnant?

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Sources References

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women

2. NHS – Foods to avoid in pregnancy

3. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE – Cheese, ricotta, whole milk

4. Encyclopedia Britannica – ricotta

5. International Journal of Women’s Health and Reproduction Sciences – Importance of optimal fiber consumption during pregnancy

6. PubMed Central – A Focused Insight into Thyme: Biological, Chemical, and Therapeutic Properties of an Indigenous Mediterranean Herb

7. PubMed Central – Tomatoes: An Extensive Review of the Associated Health Impacts of Tomatoes and Factors That Can Affect Their Cultivation

8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Safer Food Choices for Pregnant Women

9. U.S. Food and Drug Administration – What Is Foodborne Illness? Food Safety for Moms to Be