Can You Eat Game Birds When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Game birds are fine while breastfeeding. If they are shot with lead, the FSA advises people who eat a lot of game to cut down.
What the guidance says
Game birds, such as pheasant, partridge and grouse, have no breastfeeding restriction. They need to be cooked thoroughly like any poultry. Meat from game shot with lead can contain small lead fragments, and the FSA advises frequent eaters to cut down.
You can also check the calorie content of game birds alongside their safety information.
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More for the feeding months
Game Birds: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Avoid — game meat |
Common questions
Is game birds safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. Game birds are fine while breastfeeding. If they are shot with lead, the FSA advises people who eat a lot of game to cut down.
Does lead shot matter?
Occasional game is fine. The FSA advises people who eat lead-shot game frequently to eat less of it.
How should I cook game birds?
Cook until steaming hot all the way through with no pink meat and clear juices, as with other poultry.
Was this different during pregnancy?
Yes. In pregnancy our verdict was “avoid — game meat”, 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.