Can You Eat Roquefort When Pregnant?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
NHS guidance says avoid soft blue cheeses like Roquefort during pregnancy unless cooked until piping hot, because of the listeria risk.
Why is roquefort a concern in pregnancy?
Roquefort is a French sheep's-milk blue cheese matured only in the natural caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, with a tangy, salty bite and protected AOC status. Like mould-ripened soft cheeses, soft blue cheeses are moist and less acidic, so listeria bacteria can grow in them more easily. Listeriosis is rare but can be serious in pregnancy, so the NHS advises avoiding soft blue cheeses unless they have been thoroughly cooked.
You can also check the calorie content of roquefort alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
Roquefort becomes safe when cooked until piping hot all the way through — for example in a sauce that has been brought to a proper simmer, or baked until steaming.
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Check Price →Roquefort: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| While breastfeeding | Safe |
Common questions
Can I eat roquefort in the first trimester?
Yes, the advice to avoid uncooked Roquefort applies throughout pregnancy, including the first trimester.
Is a small amount of roquefort OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding uncooked Roquefort completely during pregnancy rather than limiting it, because listeria risk is not dose-dependent in a predictable way.
I accidentally ate roquefort while pregnant — what should I do?
The overall risk from one portion is low, so try not to worry. Monitor for flu-like symptoms over the following weeks and contact your midwife or GP if you feel unwell or would like reassurance.
Is cooked roquefort safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Thoroughly cooked Roquefort — piping hot all the way through, not just softened or melted — is safe to eat during pregnancy.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS foods-to-avoid guidance.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.