Pregnancy food guidance, in plain English

Yogurt

Pasteurised yogurt is safe and beneficial throughout pregnancy. It is a great source of calcium, protein, and probiotics.

Safe to eat
Yogurt

Pasteurised yogurt — including Greek yogurt, natural yogurt, flavoured yogurt, and yogurt drinks such as Yakult — is completely safe to eat throughout pregnancy. Yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for your baby's bone and teeth development, as well as protein, potassium, and B vitamins. Greek yogurt in particular is high in protein and lower in lactose than regular yogurt, which makes it easier to digest. The live cultures (probiotics) in yogurt are beneficial for gut health and have been associated with reduced risk of gestational diabetes and Group B Streptococcus in some studies. The only yogurt to avoid during pregnancy is yogurt made from unpasteurised milk, which is rare in the UK but may be found at specialist dairies or farm shops — check the label. All major supermarket yogurts are made from pasteurised milk and are safe. Frozen yogurt is also safe, though shop-bought soft-serve frozen yogurt dispensed from machines may carry a Listeria risk — see the soft-serve ice cream article.

What to be aware of

  • Choose yogurt made from pasteurised milk — all major supermarket brands are pasteurised.
  • Avoid yogurt made from unpasteurised (raw) milk — check labels when buying from farm shops or specialist producers.
  • Frozen yogurt from a tub (packaged) is safe. Soft-serve frozen yogurt from dispensing machines carries a Listeria risk.
  • Flavoured yogurts are safe but can be high in sugar — plain or natural yogurt with added fruit is a healthier option.

NHS guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/

Pregnancy-safe recipes

These recipes are designed with pregnancy safety in mind.

Greek yogurt with berries and honey

Greek yogurt with berries and honey

A calcium-rich, quick breakfast or snack — simple, nutritious, and satisfying.

Pregnancy tip: Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture and highest calcium content. The honey adds flavour without needing any sugar.

Ingredients

  • 200g full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 100g mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp granola or toasted oats
  • Optional: a few chopped walnuts

Method

  1. Spoon the yogurt into a bowl.
  2. Arrange the berries on top.
  3. Scatter over granola and walnuts if using.
  4. Drizzle with honey.
  5. Serve immediately.