Pregnancy food guidance, in plain English

Mozzarella

Mozzarella is safe to eat during pregnancy. UK supermarket mozzarella is made from pasteurised milk. Avoid unpasteurised artisan varieties if you are unsure.

Safe to eat
Mozzarella

Mozzarella is a fresh soft cheese that is safe to eat during pregnancy, provided it is made from pasteurised milk — which is the case for all standard supermarket mozzarella in the UK, including buffalo mozzarella. Unlike mould-ripened soft cheeses such as Brie or Camembert, mozzarella does not have a mould rind and does not carry the same Listeria concerns. When eating mozzarella in a restaurant or from a deli, it is worth checking that it is pasteurised, as some artisan or imported varieties made in small batches may not be. Mozzarella on a hot pizza or in a baked dish is completely safe — the heat provides additional reassurance.

What to be aware of

  • All major UK supermarket mozzarella (including buffalo) is pasteurised and safe.
  • Check labels on artisan or deli mozzarella — look for 'pasteurised milk'.
  • Mozzarella on a hot pizza or in a baked dish is completely safe.

NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/foods-to-avoid/

Pregnancy-safe recipes

These recipes are designed with pregnancy safety in mind.

Caprese salad

Caprese salad

The classic Italian salad of mozzarella, tomato, and basil — simple, fresh, and safe throughout pregnancy.

Ingredients

  • 2 balls fresh mozzarella (pasteurised), sliced
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • Large handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Method

  1. Arrange alternating slices of mozzarella and tomato on a large plate.
  2. Tuck basil leaves between the slices.
  3. Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
  4. Season well with salt and pepper.
  5. Add balsamic glaze if using.
  6. Serve immediately at room temperature.
Margherita pizza

Margherita pizza

Homemade pizza with gooey melted mozzarella — completely safe and utterly satisfying.

Pregnancy tip: Mozzarella on a hot pizza is completely safe. The high oven temperature ensures it is thoroughly heated through.

Ingredients

  • 1 pizza base (shop-bought or homemade)
  • 4 tbsp tomato passata
  • 1 ball mozzarella, torn into pieces
  • Fresh basil to finish
  • Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Method

  1. Preheat oven to its highest setting (240–250°C). Place a baking tray inside to heat up.
  2. Spread passata over the pizza base, leaving a border.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Scatter mozzarella pieces over the top.
  5. Slide onto the hot tray and bake for 8–10 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbling.
  6. Top with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.