Back to all foods
Is Cream cheese safe in pregnancy?
Generally safe
Yes — cream cheese is safe when made with pasteurised milk.
What the evidence says
Cream cheese (Philadelphia-style spreads) is safe in pregnancy as it is made from pasteurised milk and does not have the mould-ripening process that creates Listeria risk in Brie or Camembert.
Why this matters
Though soft, cream cheese is not mould-ripened and is made from pasteurised milk, so Listeria risk is minimal.
Source:NHS guidance on cheese in pregnancy
Last reviewed:April 2026
Please note — This is general guidance based on NHS advice as of April 2026. It is not medical advice. For advice on your specific pregnancy, please speak to your midwife or GP.
Personalised support
Planning a pregnancy or trying to conceive?
General guidance is a starting point. If you'd like nutrition support built around your own situation, I'd be glad to help.
