Can you eat raclette when you're pregnant?

“Raclette season is officially open!”

Every year, as soon as temperatures drop, social media fills with raclette party posts. Normally, you wouldn’t think twice before grabbing cheese, charcuterie, and pickles. But this year is different—you’re pregnant! (Or hosting a mom-to-be at your table). The big question arises: Can you eat raclette while pregnant?

No Raw Milk Cheese During Pregnancy!

Raw milk cheeses can carry  Listeria, a bacteria that causes listeriosis, a dangerous infection that increases the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Many AOP cheeses are made with raw milk, including:
🧀 Abondance, Beaufort, Mont d’Or, Reblochon, Morbier
🐐 Crottin de Chèvre, Brie de Meaux & Melun, Chabichou, Valençay...

Other high-risk foods include raw milk, undercooked meat and fish, raw shellfish, fish roe, and deli meats.

Is Raclette Safe for Pregnant Women?

The good news: Listeria dies above 70°C! If you fully melt or grill your raclette cheese, it should be safe. To be extra cautious, opt for pasteurized raclette cheese, available at most stores.

What About the Charcuterie?

Deli meats also carry Listeria risk. To stay safe, choose cooked, vacuum-packed meats like ham from the supermarket, but avoid sliced deli meats from the butcher, as slicers may be contaminated.

Alternatives for Pregnant Women

Tired of ham? Try a vegetable raclette!
🥒 Zucchini strips
🍄 Sliced mushrooms
🧅 Pickled onions

And What About Tartiflette & Fondue?

Great news— tartiflette and fondue follow the same rules as raclette! As long as the cheese is fully melted or pasteurized, you’re good to go.

🥳 You’re officially saved from one of pregnancy’s biggest winter worries—enjoy your raclette!