Can You Eat Chicken Liver When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes, in moderation. Chicken Liver isn't restricted while breastfeeding, but liver is very high in vitamin A, so the usual adult advice is to eat liver or liver products no more than once a week (NHS).
What the guidance says
In pregnancy, liver and liver products are avoided because too much vitamin A can harm an unborn baby; pâté was also avoided for listeria. Neither rule applies to breastfeeding. The general NHS advice for adults still holds: if you eat liver or liver pâté more than once a week, you may be getting too much vitamin A over time.
You can also check the calorie content of chicken liver alongside its safety information.
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Chicken Liver: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Avoid |
Common questions
Is chicken liver safe while breastfeeding?
Yes, in moderation. Chicken Liver isn't restricted while breastfeeding, but liver is very high in vitamin A, so the usual adult advice is to eat liver or liver products no more than once a week (NHS).
How often can I eat chicken liver?
The NHS advises that eating liver or liver products more than once a week may mean too much vitamin A. Once a week is fine.
Does the listeria warning apply now?
The warning about pâté and listeria was a pregnancy rule. Keep it chilled and eat it by the date as for any chilled food.
Was this different during pregnancy?
Yes. In pregnancy our verdict was “avoid”, because of a risk to the unborn baby (see our pregnancy guide). Those reasons ended when your baby was born.
What should I avoid while breastfeeding?
The NHS list is short. Caffeine: try not to have more than 300mg a day (a mug of filter coffee is about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg). Alcohol: it is safer not to drink, but 1 or 2 units once or twice a week should be fine. Oily fish: no more than 2 portions a week. Shark, swordfish and marlin: no more than 1 portion a week. Peanuts are fine unless you're allergic. Most other foods that were off the menu in pregnancy, such as soft cheese, pâté, cured meat and runny eggs, are not restricted.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.