Can You Eat Chorizo When Pregnant?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
The NHS says cold cured meats such as salami, chorizo and prosciutto must be cooked until steaming hot in pregnancy. Chorizo is a cold cured meat, so the same rule applies.
Why is chorizo a concern in pregnancy?
Chorizo is cured rather than cooked. The NHS foods-to-avoid page (reviewed 15 June 2026) says cold cured, ready-to-eat meats may contain listeria and should be cooked until steaming hot, and its toxoplasmosis page warns of a small risk from raw, undercooked or cured meat. Toxoplasmosis in pregnancy is rare but can cause serious complications for the baby. The NHS says cold cured meats should be cooked until steaming hot before eating (its current guidance no longer offers freezing as an alternative), so eat it cold from the packet only after your baby is born.
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.
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Check Price →Chorizo: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| While breastfeeding | Safe |
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.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.