Is Milkshake Safe During Pregnancy? Expert Advice
Yes, milkshakes are generally safe during pregnancy if made with pasteurized ingredients and consumed in moderation, ensuring no harmful additives are included.
Pregnant women often crave milkshakes but worry about food safety. The good news? Most commercial milkshakes are safe when made with pasteurized ingredients. However, there are important exceptions and precautions every expecting mother should know.
Milkshake Safety: The Complete Picture
Milkshakes can be a nutritious pregnancy treat when prepared properly. The primary concerns involve:
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Raw egg ingredients
- Improperly cleaned equipment
Pasteurization Matters Most
The NHS confirms pasteurized milk, yogurt, cream and ice cream are safe during pregnancy. Most commercial establishments like McDonald’s use pasteurized dairy. However, some specialty shops or homemade versions might use unpasteurized milk, which carries listeria risk.
Listeria infection during pregnancy can lead to:
| Risk | Potential Consequence |
|---|---|
| First trimester | Miscarriage |
| Later pregnancy | Premature delivery or stillbirth |
| Newborn | Serious infection |
Special Ingredients to Watch
Egg Concerns in Milkshakes
Some premium milkshakes contain raw eggs for extra creaminess. The UK Food Standards Agency advises pregnant women should only consume:
- British Lion hen eggs (with lion stamp)
- Eggs from the Laid in Britain scheme
These have very low salmonella risk. For other eggs, ensure they’re fully cooked. When making milkshakes at home, consider pasteurized liquid eggs as a safer alternative.
Alternative Milk Options
For those avoiding dairy, plant-based milks can be used. The NHS notes unsweetened calcium-fortified alternatives (soya, oat, coconut) count as healthy options. These eliminate listeria concerns but check they’re pasteurized.
Commercial vs. Homemade Milkshakes
Restaurant Milkshakes
Most fast-food chains like McDonald’s use:
- Pasteurized dairy
- Pre-mixed syrups
- Regularly cleaned equipment
As one mother shared on The Bump forum: “I’ve had a few strawberry milkshakes from McDonald’s so far this pregnancy and they were delicious.” The key is choosing reputable establishments with high food safety standards.
Homemade Milkshake Safety
When making milkshakes at home:
- Use pasteurized milk/ice cream
- Avoid raw eggs unless British Lion marked
- Clean blenders thoroughly – easy-to-clean equipment helps
- Consume immediately or refrigerate at ≤4°C
The NHS recommends lower-fat dairy options, but full-fat versions are safe if pasteurized.
Nutritional Benefits of Milkshakes
When made wisely, milkshakes offer pregnancy nutrients:
- Calcium: Supports baby’s bone development
- Protein: Essential for tissue growth
- Calories: Helps meet increased energy needs
For extra nutrition, add:
- Bananas (potassium)
- Peanut butter (protein)
- Greek yogurt (probiotics)
When to Avoid Milkshakes
Exercise caution with:
- Unpasteurized dairy products
- Milkshakes containing alcohol
- Questionable hygiene practices
- High-sugar versions (moderation advised)
As one forum contributor noted: “If we stopped eating based on every worry, pregnant women would be stuck in the house all day!” Balance is key – enjoy treats wisely while following basic food safety guidelines.
