Can You Eat Ricotta When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Ricotta is fine while breastfeeding. The NHS doesn't list any cheese to avoid.
What the guidance says
No cheese appears on the NHS list of foods and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding. Ricotta was fine in pregnancy too if made with pasteurised milk, so nothing changes. As with any chilled food, keep it in the fridge and eat it by the use-by date.
You can also check the calorie content of ricotta alongside its safety information.
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Ricotta: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | Safe if pasteurised |
Common questions
Is ricotta safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. Ricotta is fine while breastfeeding. The NHS doesn't list any cheese to avoid.
Do I need to choose pasteurised ricotta?
Pasteurised is the normal choice and the best one. Unpasteurised cheese carries a small extra food-poisoning risk for anyone, but there's no breastfeeding-specific rule against it.
Could ricotta upset my baby?
Rarely a baby reacts to cows' milk protein, with skin reactions, tummy upset or eczema. If you think that's happening, speak to your GP or health visitor. Lactose intolerance isn't the same thing (NHS).
Was this different during pregnancy?
In pregnancy our verdict was “safe if pasteurised” (see our pregnancy guide for the reasons).
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.