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Is Deli meat (ham, salami, chorizo, pepperoni) safe in pregnancy?
Safe with limits
Safer when cooked; heat thoroughly before eating.
What the evidence says
Cured, fermented, or air-dried deli meats such as salami, chorizo, pepperoni, prosciutto and Parma ham carry a small risk of toxoplasmosis. Current NHS guidance advises cooking them thoroughly before eating, or freezing at -18°C for at least 4 days before use. Cooked ham and other fully cooked sliced meats are fine.
Why this matters
Cured rather than cooked meats may contain Toxoplasma parasites. Freezing or cooking destroys them.
Source:NHS guidance on foods to avoid 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.
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