Cream cheese is a soft, mild dairy spread that provides calcium, protein, and healthy fats. Its smooth texture makes it a popular addition to breakfasts and snacks. Choosing pasteurised versions makes it a suitable option during pregnancy.
Why it's good in pregnancy
The calcium in cream cheese supports your baby's developing bones and teeth while helping maintain your own bone density. Its protein content contributes to tissue growth, and healthy fats support your baby's brain development. Vitamin A and B vitamins add further nutritional value to this everyday spread.
Key nutrients
CalciumSupports your baby's developing bones and teeth and helps maintain your own bone health.
ProteinProvides building blocks for your baby's growing tissues.
Healthy FatsSupport your baby's brain and nervous system development.
Vitamin AContributes to your baby's vision and organ development in food-based amounts.
B VitaminsSupport energy metabolism and red blood cell formation.
Serving ideas
Spread on whole-grain toast
Mixed into a vegetable dip
Swirled into baked goods
Paired with fruit for a snack
Used as a base for a pasta sauce
Spread on crackers with cucumber
Safety
Choose pasteurized.
Choose cream cheese made from pasteurised milk, which is standard for most commercially sold products, and check the label if unsure. Store it in the refrigerator and keep it tightly sealed to prevent contamination. Use within the recommended time after opening, and discard if you notice any off smell, taste, or visible mold. Avoid cream cheese that has been left out at room temperature for extended periods.
Common questions
Is all cream cheese pasteurised?Most commercially available cream cheese is made from pasteurised milk, but it's worth checking the label if you're unsure.
Can I eat cream cheese frosting during pregnancy?Yes, as long as the cream cheese used is pasteurised, which is typical for most retail products.
Is cream cheese a good calcium source during pregnancy?It contributes some calcium, though it's not as concentrated a source as milk or hard cheeses.
Did you know?
Cream cheese is made by combining milk and cream with a mild acid to create its characteristic smooth texture.
Choosing pasteurised dairy products is one of the simplest ways to reduce food-safety risk during pregnancy.
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