Last updated on July 21, 2025
Wondering if shrimp is safe during pregnancy? You’re not alone, mama. With so many “can I eat this?” questions swirling around, it’s completely normal to second-guess even the tastiest cravings, like shrimp!
Shrimp might be tiny, but the questions around eating it during pregnancy can feel big. So let’s walk through what you really need to know—how to enjoy it safely, how much is okay, and the surprising ways it can support your growing baby.
Can Pregnant Women Eat Shrimp? 🦐
Yes, you can absolutely eat shrimp during pregnancy, as long as it’s cooked and eaten in moderation.
Shrimp is low in mercury, packed with lean protein, and rich in key nutrients like Omega-3s, vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. All of these support your baby’s growth and your health.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) lists shrimp as one of the safest seafood options for pregnant women, recommending 8 to 12 ounces per week of low-mercury seafood, including shrimp.
How Much Shrimp Can You Eat While Pregnant?
So, according to the FDA, you can safely eat 8 to 12 ounces of low-mercury seafood per week. What does this mean for eating shrimp?
That’s about:
- 2 to 3 servings per week
- Roughly 20 to 30 medium shrimp weekly
📌 Note: This recommendation assumes you are not eating other types of seafood during the same week. If you do consume other seafood, you should adjust your shrimp intake accordingly.
These limits on seafood consumption are in place because of mercury, a naturally occurring metal found in seafood. Although shrimp contains low levels of mercury, eating a lot of it from different places could lead to too much mercury in your system. This could be harmful to your baby’s nervous system as it develops.
🚫 Raw or Undercooked Shrimp? A Definite No
While shrimp is pregnancy-safe when cooked, raw or undercooked shrimp should be completely avoided.
Eating it raw (like in sushi or ceviche) can expose you to harmful bacteria and parasites, such as Vibrio and Salmonella, which could lead to serious foodborne illnesses.
🔥 How to Cook Shrimp Safely During Pregnancy
Shrimp must be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) to be considered safe during pregnancy. When properly cooked, the flesh turns opaque and pink and feels firm to the touch.
You can reach this temperature using several cooking methods:
- Boiling: Cook shrimp in boiling water for about 2–3 minutes, or until they curl and turn pink.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake shrimp for 9–13 minutes, depending on size.
- Grilling or Broiling: Grill or broil for 2–4 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Sautéing: Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
Always check the thickest part of the shrimp if you’re unsure!
Let’s Recap: How to Cook Shrimp Safely
- Internal temperature: 145°F (63°C)
- Visual cue: Pink, opaque, and firm
- Avoid: Translucent, rubbery, or slimy shrimp
Benefits of Eating Shrimp During Pregnancy
Shrimp isn’t just safe, it’s super nutritious. Here’s how it supports you and your baby:
1. Supports Baby’s Growth and Development
Shrimp is a great source of lean protein, which helps build your baby’s cells, muscles, and tissues. It also supports your body as it changes during pregnancy.
2. Brain & Eye Development
Thanks to Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA), shrimp may contribute to your baby’s brain and vision development.
3. Immune Boosting Power
Shrimp contains selenium, a powerful antioxidant that supports both maternal immunity and may help reduce inflammation.
4. Bone Strength and Calcium Absorption
With nutrients like vitamin D and phosphorus, shrimp can help improve calcium absorption. That is important for strong bones in both you and your baby.
5. Rich in Vitamin B12 and Iodine
These nutrients play a role in red blood cell production, thyroid function, and fetal neurological development.
⚠️ Safety Tips for Eating Shrimp During Pregnancy ⚠️
✅ Always eat fully cooked shrimp (no raw sushi or ceviche!)
✅ Stick to 8–12 ounces per week (if you also eat other seafood, adjust the amount)
✅ Watch out for cross-contamination in the kitchen
✅ Avoid seafood from uncertain sources: opt for wild-caught or sustainably farmed shrimp
✅ If buying pre-cooked shrimp (like for a cocktail), double-check that it’s been safely stored
FAQs About Shrimp and Pregnancy
Final Thoughts: Shrimp Can Be a Pregnancy-Safe Superfood
Shrimp is not only safe during pregnancy, it’s also incredibly nourishing. Just remember:
- Cook it thoroughly
- Don’t exceed weekly intake limits
- Pair it with other healthy, low-mercury seafood for variety
Whether you’re enjoying grilled shrimp over salad, in a pasta dish, or as part of a delicious shrimp cocktail, you can feel confident that this seafood favorite is pregnancy-approved.
As always, when in doubt, talk to your OB-GYN about your individual needs and dietary considerations.
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your doctor or OB-GYN before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine while pregnant.
Loved this guide? Check out our related articles on safe seafood in pregnancy and healthy prenatal nutrition tips!
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