Are enoki mushrooms safe during pregnancy?
These trendy salad mushrooms have been behind multiple listeria outbreaks.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician ·
The short answer
Only if they are cooked thoroughly. Raw enoki mushrooms have been linked to listeria outbreaks, and both the NHS and the CDC say pregnant women should not eat them raw.
Why it matters
In 2020 the US had its first listeria outbreak linked to enoki mushrooms, followed by another in 2022 — and there have been more than 20 enoki recalls for possible listeria since.
Enoki are often eaten raw or barely cooked in salads, ramen and hot pot, which gives listeria a chance to survive. Heat kills it.
What to do
- Cook enoki until steaming hot all the way through.
- Keep raw enoki away from foods that won’t be cooked.
- Wash hands, boards and surfaces after handling them.
- In hot pot, make sure they are properly cooked, not just dipped.
Common questions
Are other mushrooms safe in pregnancy?
Ordinary cooked mushrooms are fine. Wash raw mushrooms well; the specific warning for pregnancy is about eating raw enoki.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician, on against the sources above. Guidance can differ between countries — always follow the advice of your own midwife, doctor or pharmacist. Medical disclaimer.
You might not know these either
Can you eat game meat like venison or pheasant when pregnant?
Pheasant, partridge and venison are on the NHS avoid list — because of lead.
Read the answer →
Is liquorice safe during pregnancy?
Heavy liquorice eating in pregnancy has been linked to lower IQ scores and more attention problems in children.
Read the answer →
Why are my hands and feet itchy in pregnancy?
Intense itching on your palms and soles can signal a liver condition that affects your baby.
Read the answer →Get all 42 in one guide
We’re turning every tip into one beautifully organised guide — with trimester-by-trimester checklists and a printable fridge list of foods to avoid. Join the early-access list and we’ll let you know when it’s ready.