Can You Eat Haggis 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.
Haggis is best avoided during pregnancy because it contains lamb's liver, which is high in vitamin A (retinol).
Why is haggis a concern in pregnancy?
Traditional haggis contains lamb's liver (as well as heart and lungs). Liver is high in retinol, the form of vitamin A the NHS says to avoid in pregnancy because too much can harm your baby's development. Since the liver content of haggis is significant, it's best avoided while pregnant.
You can also check the calorie content of haggis 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 haggis in the first trimester?
Yes — avoiding Haggis 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 haggis OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding Haggis completely during pregnancy rather than limiting it, because retinol accumulates in the body.
I accidentally ate haggis 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 haggis safe in pregnancy?
Cooking does not reduce the vitamin A content, so Haggis 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.