can I eat deli meat?
Cold deli meats like sliced turkey, chicken and roast beef are considered safe in the UK if pre-packed and in date, but US guidance advises heating all deli meat until steaming hot before eating because of listeria risk.
why it matters
Deli meats are ready-to-eat and stored chilled, which is exactly the environment where listeria can slowly grow. Listeriosis in pregnancy is rare but serious. UK and US authorities weigh this risk differently — the US errs firmly on the side of heating.
how to have it safely
Heat deli meat until steaming hot (for example, in a toasted sandwich or on pizza) — this kills listeria and satisfies even the strictest guidance. Otherwise, choose pre-packed over deli-counter slices and eat soon after opening.
worth knowing
- UK (NHS): pre-packed cooked sliced meats like ham and chicken are fine to eat cold.
- US (FDA/CDC): avoid cold deli meat unless heated to steaming (74°C / 165°F) just before eating.
- Deli-counter meat sliced to order carries slightly higher risk than sealed packs.
- Eat opened packs within a couple of days and keep your fridge at 5°C or below.
common questions
Can I eat a cold turkey sandwich while pregnant?
In the UK, pre-packed cooked turkey slices are considered fine. If you're following US guidance or want extra reassurance, toast the sandwich so the meat is steaming hot.
Why is listeria such a concern in pregnancy?
Pregnancy naturally dampens parts of your immune system, making you roughly 10 times more susceptible to listeriosis, which can affect the baby. It's rare — but that's why cold, ready-to-eat foods get extra caution.
also in meat
Aligned with guidance from the NHS, FDA and WHO. This is general information, not personal medical advice — check with your midwife or doctor about your own situation. How we write.