Can You Eat Chorizo When Pregnant?
Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Updated September 2026
Nutritional data sourced from USDA FoodData Central and Public Health England. Always consult a registered dietitian for personal dietary advice.
The NHS advises avoiding cold cured meats like Chorizo during pregnancy unless cooked through or frozen for 4 days first, due to the toxoplasmosis risk.
Why is chorizo a concern in pregnancy?
Chorizo is cured and fermented rather than cooked, so it can contain toxoplasmosis parasites. Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy is rare but can cause serious complications for the baby. The NHS advises avoiding cold cured meats in pregnancy unless they have been thoroughly cooked, or frozen for 4 days at home first (freezing kills most parasites).
You can also check the calorie content of chorizo alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
Cooking chorizo (fried, or in a stew or paella, piping hot) makes it safe. Cured slicing chorizo eaten cold should be avoided or frozen for 4 days first.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
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Cooked through means 75°C in the middle — a probe ends the guesswork.
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More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
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Common questions
Can I eat chorizo in the first trimester?
Yes — the advice applies throughout pregnancy, including the first trimester.
Is a small amount of chorizo OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding uncooked Chorizo during pregnancy rather than limiting it, because the risk comes from the parasite being present at all.
I accidentally ate chorizo while pregnant — what should I do?
The chance of infection from a single portion is low — many people also have existing immunity to toxoplasmosis. Watch for flu-like symptoms or swollen glands and speak to your midwife or GP if you're concerned; they can arrange a blood test for reassurance.
Is cooked chorizo safe in pregnancy?
Yes — Chorizo cooked until piping hot (for example crisped on a pizza or in a pasta dish) is safe to eat during pregnancy.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
The information on 247foodcheck.com is compiled from official public guidance (NHS, Food Standards Agency, USDA/FDA FoodKeeper) and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice and does not replace guidance from your midwife, GP, health visitor or other qualified professional. When in doubt, throw it out — and if you feel unwell after eating something, contact NHS 111 or your doctor.