Can You Eat Duck Eggs 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.
Duck eggs are safe during pregnancy only when cooked thoroughly — the British Lion scheme doesn't cover them, so no runny yolks.
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Why is duck eggs safe in pregnancy?
Duck eggs aren't produced under the British Lion Code, so the NHS advice for runny eggs doesn't extend to them. Cook duck eggs until both the white and yolk are completely firm and they are safe to eat during pregnancy.
You can also check the calorie content of duck eggs alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
Avoid runny or lightly cooked duck eggs while pregnant.
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Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy multivitamin
The NHS advises 400µg of folic acid daily — easiest as one daily tablet.
Check Price →Pregnancy food guide
A paper reference for the fridge door — no more mid-supermarket googling.
Check Price →Digital food thermometer
Cooked through means 75°C in the middle — a probe ends the guesswork.
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Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
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 duck eggs in the first trimester?
Yes — duck eggs are safe at every stage of pregnancy.
Is a small amount of duck eggs OK during pregnancy?
No limit applies — duck eggs can be eaten freely as part of a balanced diet.
I accidentally ate duck eggs while pregnant — what should I do?
No action needed — duck eggs are safe during pregnancy.
Is cooked duck eggs safe in pregnancy?
Yes — duck eggs are by definition cooked, and cooked eggs are safe in 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.