Can you eat sushi when pregnant?
The UK used to allow raw fish if it had been frozen first. Not any more.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician ·
The short answer
Only eat sushi made with cooked fish, cooked shellfish or vegetables. Current NHS advice is to avoid sushi made with raw fish — even if it has been previously frozen — and US guidance also says to avoid raw fish and shellfish in pregnancy.
Why it matters
Raw fish can carry parasites and bacteria such as listeria. Freezing kills parasites but not listeria, which can survive the freezer.
For years UK advice said raw fish was fine if it had been frozen first. The NHS has since changed this: sushi made with raw fish is now on the avoid list, even if previously frozen — bringing it in line with US advice.
Raw shellfish (oysters, clams, mussels) carries a higher risk of food poisoning and is advised against everywhere.
What to do
- Choose cooked options: tempura prawn, eel (unagi), cooked crab, egg (tamago), cucumber or avocado rolls.
- Avoid raw shellfish entirely.
- Watch out for high-mercury fish like swordfish, and limit tuna.
Common questions
Is a California roll safe during pregnancy?
Usually, yes — California rolls are normally made with cooked imitation crab and avocado. Check there’s no raw fish or roe added.
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.
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