Can You Eat Steak Tartare When Pregnant?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
No — steak tartare is raw beef (often with raw egg too), and the NHS advises avoiding raw meat throughout pregnancy.
Why is steak tartare a concern in pregnancy?
Steak Tartare has not been cooked all the way through. Raw and undercooked meat can carry the toxoplasmosis parasite, which is rare but can cause serious problems for an unborn baby, as well as bacteria such as salmonella and E. coli. The NHS advises cooking all meat thoroughly during pregnancy so there is no trace of pink or blood.
You can also check the calorie content of steak tartare alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
The same cut cooked well done — piping hot with no pink — is safe to eat during pregnancy.
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Check Price →Steak Tartare: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| While breastfeeding | Safe |
Common questions
Can I eat steak tartare in the first trimester?
Yes — the advice to avoid steak tartare applies from the start of pregnancy. Toxoplasmosis caught in early pregnancy is rarer but can be more serious.
Is a small amount of steak tartare OK during pregnancy?
There is no safe amount of undercooked meat during pregnancy — the risk comes from the parasite or bacteria being present at all, not the quantity eaten.
I accidentally ate steak tartare while pregnant — what should I do?
Try not to worry — the actual chance of infection from one meal is low, and most people who eat undercooked meat while pregnant are fine. If you develop flu-like symptoms or swollen glands, or you'd simply like reassurance, speak to your midwife or GP; a blood test for toxoplasmosis is available if needed.
Is cooked steak tartare safe in pregnancy?
Yes — the same meat cooked thoroughly until there is no pink and the juices run clear is safe 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.