Can I Eat Runny Eggs While Pregnant? Complete Safety Guide 2026
Quick Answer (Runny Eggs)
Use caution. Runny or undercooked eggs can raise the risk of foodborne illness during pregnancy.
If you choose eggs with runny yolks, only do so when the eggs are pasteurized and cooked safely.
Why Runny Eggs Can Be Risky
The main concern is salmonella, which is more dangerous during pregnancy due to dehydration risk and potential complications.
Cooking eggs until both the whites and yolks are firm reduces risk.
Trimester-Specific Guidance
All trimesters: follow the same safety principles—avoid undercooked eggs unless pasteurized and handled properly.
How to Make Eggs Safer
Choose pasteurized eggs when possible.
Cook eggs thoroughly or use recipes that fully heat the egg mixture.
Avoid raw batter and homemade sauces made with raw eggs.
Safe Alternatives
Hard-boiled eggs, fully cooked scrambled eggs, omelets, or commercially prepared foods made with pasteurized eggs.
FAQ
Are soft-boiled eggs safe during pregnancy?
Soft-boiled eggs have a runny yolk, so treat them like runny eggs—use caution unless pasteurized and cooked safely.
What if I ate runny eggs before I knew I was pregnant?
Most exposures do not lead to illness. Monitor for symptoms and contact your clinician if you develop fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Are restaurant eggs safe?
Ask if they use pasteurized eggs and request fully cooked eggs when in doubt.
Do pasteurized eggs eliminate risk?
They can reduce risk, but safe handling and cooking still matter.
What’s the safest way to order eggs?
Order eggs fully cooked (hard, firm yolk) to minimize risk.
Sources: FDA, CDC, ACOG
Last Updated: Feb 24, 2026
Reviewed by: Sarah Mitchell, RD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider.