Can You Eat Cod Liver Oil 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.
No — the NHS says to avoid cod liver oil and other fish liver oil supplements in pregnancy because they contain retinol (vitamin A).
Why is cod liver oil a concern in pregnancy?
Cod liver oil is high in vitamin A in its retinol form, which can harm a developing baby in high amounts. The NHS specifically advises avoiding fish liver oil supplements and any supplement containing vitamin A while pregnant. If you want omega-3 in supplement form, choose a pregnancy-specific omega-3 supplement that is retinol-free.
You can also check the calorie content of cod liver oil alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
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Common questions
Can I eat cod liver oil in the first trimester?
Yes — avoiding cod liver oil matters most in the first trimester, when your baby's organs are forming, but the NHS advice is to avoid it for the whole pregnancy.
Is a small amount of cod liver oil OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding cod liver oil completely during pregnancy rather than limiting it, because retinol accumulates in the body.
I accidentally ate cod liver oil while pregnant — what should I do?
A one-off portion is very unlikely to have caused harm — the concern is regular consumption. Avoid it going forward and mention it to your midwife at your next appointment if you're worried.
Is cooked cod liver oil safe in pregnancy?
Cooking does not reduce the vitamin A content, so cod liver oil should be avoided during pregnancy however it is prepared.
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.