Why should pregnant women be careful with ham?
The main risk of consuming Iberian ham during pregnancy is toxoplasmosis, an infection caused by a parasite that can be present in raw or poorly cured meat. This parasite can affect the fetus if the mother It is contagious, so it is important to take precautions when consuming raw or cured meat products.
Is it safe to eat cured Iberian ham?
Traditionally, pregnant women were recommended to avoid Iberian ham completely due to the risk of toxoplasmosis. But, recent studies have shown that long curing processes, such as those of acorn-fed Iberian ham, eliminate the risk of this infection, as long as the curing time is greater than 18 months.
Currently, most hams are completely reviewed for the safety of consumers. However, it is recommended that if a pregnant woman is going to consume ham, it should be cured for 18 months or more.
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What should pregnant women take into account?
If you are pregnant and want to enjoy Iberian ham, it is important that you follow these recommendations:
- Always ask about the curing and conservation process of the ham before consuming it.
- If in doubt, opt for ham that has been previously frozen.
Cooked Iberian ham: another alternative
In addition to cured Iberian ham, pregnant women can also opt for cooked Iberian ham. This type of ham has gone through a cooking process that eliminates any risk of toxoplasmosis. Although it is not as popular as cured ham, it is still a very good and safe option during pregnancy. If you are a ham lover we recommend a tasting of Iberian ham, with the best professionals in the sector.
Pregnant women can enjoy Iberian ham as long as appropriate precautions are taken, such as choosing products cured for more than 18 months or previously frozen. If you follow these recommendations, you will be able to enjoy this delicious product without worries. If you have questions, at Jamón Experience we can advise you so that you can enjoy the best gastronomic experience safely.
