Clams are a shellfish offering iron, calcium, and protein, making them a nutrient-dense choice during pregnancy when properly cooked. They pair well with pasta, soups, and rice dishes.
Why it's good in pregnancy
Clams provide iron and calcium to support your growing blood volume and your baby's bone development. Their protein, zinc, and B vitamin content support tissue growth and energy metabolism throughout pregnancy.
Key nutrients
IronSupports increased blood volume during pregnancy.
CalciumSupports your baby's developing bones and teeth.
ProteinSupports your baby's tissue growth and development.
ZincSupports immune function and cell growth.
B VitaminsSupport energy metabolism and nervous system health.
Serving ideas
Steam clams in broth until shells open fully
Add cooked clams to a seafood pasta dish
Include in a well-cooked chowder
Serve cooked clams over rice with vegetables
Add to a paella with other fully cooked seafood
Safety
Clams must be fully cooked until their shells open, since raw or undercooked shellfish can carry bacteria and viruses that pose higher risks during pregnancy. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking. Buy clams from a reliable source and cook them soon after purchase to minimize food-safety risks.
Fully cook until shells open; avoid raw.
Buy live clams with tightly closed shells, or shells that close when tapped, and refrigerate them, using within a day or two. Discard any clams with cracked or damaged shells before cooking. Cook clams thoroughly until the shells open, discarding any that remain closed afterward. Avoid raw clams entirely during pregnancy, and refrigerate leftovers promptly, eating within a day.
Common questions
Can I eat clams during pregnancy?Yes, as long as they are fully cooked until the shells open; raw clams, like in some sushi or on the half shell, should be avoided.
Is clam chowder safe during pregnancy?Yes, as long as the clams are thoroughly cooked and the chowder is made with pasteurised dairy if included.
Why do clams need to be cooked so thoroughly?Raw or undercooked shellfish can carry bacteria and viruses that are more risky during pregnancy, so thorough cooking helps ensure safety.
Did you know?
Clams are one of the richest natural sources of vitamin B12 among shellfish.
Some clam species can live for decades in the wild.
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