Scallops are a delicate shellfish providing iron, protein, and healthy fats, making them a nutritious choice during pregnancy when fully cooked. Their mild flavor pairs well with many dishes.
Why it's good in pregnancy
Scallops provide iron to support your increased blood volume and protein for your baby's tissue growth. Their zinc and B vitamin content support immune function and energy metabolism, while healthy fats contribute to overall nutrition during pregnancy.
Key nutrients
IronSupports increased blood volume during pregnancy.
ProteinSupports your baby's tissue growth and development.
ZincSupports immune function and cell growth.
Healthy FatsProvide steady energy and support nutrient absorption.
B VitaminsSupport energy metabolism and nervous system health.
Serving ideas
Pan-sear scallops until fully opaque
Add cooked scallops to a pasta dish
Include in a well-cooked seafood stir-fry
Serve cooked scallops over a bed of greens
Bake with garlic and herbs until cooked through
Safety
Scallops should always be cooked thoroughly, as raw or undercooked shellfish, including scallops served raw in dishes like sashimi or ceviche, can carry bacteria that pose a higher risk during pregnancy. Cook scallops until they turn opaque and firm throughout. Buy from a reliable source and store properly to reduce food-safety concerns.
Cook thoroughly; avoid raw.
Buy fresh or properly frozen scallops from a reliable source and keep them refrigerated or frozen until ready to cook. Cook scallops thoroughly until they turn opaque and firm, avoiding raw preparations like sashimi or ceviche during pregnancy. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and eat within a day or two. Use separate utensils and cutting boards for raw seafood to avoid cross-contamination.
Common questions
Can I eat scallops during pregnancy?Yes, as long as they are cooked thoroughly until opaque and firm; raw preparations should be avoided.
Is scallop ceviche safe during pregnancy?No, ceviche relies on citrus rather than heat to prepare the seafood, so it's best avoided during pregnancy.
How can I tell if scallops are fully cooked?Fully cooked scallops turn opaque and firm throughout, with no translucent or glassy appearance remaining.
Did you know?
Scallops are one of the few shellfish that can swim by rapidly clapping their shells together.
Only the muscle of the scallop is typically eaten in most parts of the world.
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