Can You Drink Unpasteurised Milk When Pregnant?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS foods-to-avoid guidance · Last updated 28 October 2026
No — the NHS advises avoiding unpasteurised milk during pregnancy because unpasteurised products can contain harmful bacteria such as listeria and E. coli.
Why is unpasteurised milk a concern in pregnancy?
Unpasteurised Milk has not been pasteurised, so any bacteria present — including listeria, salmonella, campylobacter and E. coli — survive into the finished product. These infections are more serious during pregnancy, and listeria in particular can harm the baby. The NHS advises sticking to pasteurised versions while pregnant.
You can also check the calorie content of unpasteurised milk alongside its safety information. Also check medication safety during pregnancy if you're managing any conditions.
The exception
The pasteurised equivalent is completely safe. If only unpasteurised milk is available, the NHS says boiling it first makes it safe.
Safe swaps
As an Amazon Associate, CJ Affiliate and AWIN publisher we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Pregnancy essentials
Pregnancy food guide
A paper reference for the fridge door — no more mid-supermarket googling.
Check Price →Digital food thermometer
Cooked through means 75°C in the middle — a probe ends the guesswork.
Check Price →Links open your local Amazon store. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Want to know exactly what's in your food? Our ingredient checker covers E-numbers, allergens and vegan status.
More pregnancy essentials
Baby-safe food thermometer
Useful for pregnancy cooking checks and later for baby food.
Check Price →Unpasteurised Milk: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| While breastfeeding | Not recommended — food poisoning risk |
Common questions
Can I eat unpasteurised milk in the first trimester?
Yes — the advice to avoid unpasteurised milk applies throughout pregnancy.
Is a small amount of unpasteurised milk OK during pregnancy?
The NHS advises avoiding unpasteurised milk entirely during pregnancy rather than limiting it.
I accidentally ate unpasteurised milk while pregnant — what should I do?
The risk from a single serving is low. Watch for stomach upset or flu-like symptoms over the following days and weeks, and contact your midwife or GP if you feel unwell.
Is cooked unpasteurised milk safe in pregnancy?
Yes — boiling or thoroughly heating unpasteurised milk kills the bacteria of concern, making it safe.
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.