Can you eat fish eggs while pregnant?

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Fish are generally considered to be a very healthy food choice, yet eating the unborn embryo of some species has been cautioned against. It is an area that gives rise to conflicting advice due to a lack of scientific evidence.

Eggs may not be removed from commercially sold fish, but there have been reports of eggs being found in cod liver. This is why advice differs between countries – in some, cod liver is avoided because of the risk of ingesting unborn fish; whereas in others, it may be encouraged as a source of omega-3 fatty acids.

While there isn’t enough evidence to prove any health risks associated with eating fish eggs during pregnancy, it is still best to avoid them as a precaution.

Eggs may be found in large fish such as salmon, cod, and tuna, and these should definitely be avoided. Smaller fish such as sardines are considered safe during pregnancy – eggs would probably only be found in very large quantities which would make the fish unpalatable anyway.

It is uncertain whether there are any potential risks associated with eating fish eggs while pregnant, but because it hasn’t been studied enough, the precautionary principle would suggest that they should be avoided.

Since omega-3 fatty acids (which can be found in oily fish such as sardines and pilchards) have a number of benefits for the developing baby, fish should still be consumed at least once a week.

Pregnancy Sickness Support has information on which foods are safe to eat while pregnant. The best advice is to check with your midwife or doctor before eating any fish not specifically mentioned above. You can always seek assistance or guidance from your doctor to find out whether a specific type of fish is safe for you, or ask on our parenting forum.