Pregnancy is a time of excitement, anticipation, and many questions. One of the most common concerns for expectant mothers is what foods are safe to eat.
With so much conflicting information out there, it can be difficult to know what to avoid and what’s okay to indulge in. One such food that often raises questions is bechamel sauce.
This creamy, delicious sauce is a staple in many dishes, including lasagne and macaroni and cheese. But can you eat bechamel sauce when pregnant?
In this article, we’ll explore the facts and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about this popular sauce.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
Can You Eat Bechamel Sauce When Pregnant?
The short answer is yes, you can eat bechamel sauce when pregnant. Bechamel sauce is typically made with milk, flour, and butter, all of which are safe to consume during pregnancy.
However, it’s important to note that not all dairy products are created equal. Unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria such as listeria, which can cause infections and complications during pregnancy.
Fortunately, in most developed countries, including the UK, all dairy products are legally required to be produced from pasteurized milk. Pasteurization is a heat treatment process that destroys harmful bacteria, making dairy products safe to consume during pregnancy.
So as long as the bechamel sauce you’re consuming is made with pasteurized milk, it’s perfectly safe to eat.
What Is Bechamel Sauce?
Bechamel sauce is a classic French white sauce that is commonly used in dishes such as lasagne, macaroni and cheese, and gratins. It is made by whisking together butter and flour to create a roux, which is then slowly whisked with milk until it thickens into a creamy sauce. Sometimes cheese is added to the sauce to create a Mornay sauce.
Bechamel sauce is a versatile base for many dishes, and can be flavored with herbs, spices, or other ingredients such as mustard or tomato paste. It is also commonly used as a component in other sauces, such as the hollandaise and bearnaise sauces mentioned earlier.
While bechamel sauce typically contains dairy ingredients, it is safe for pregnant women to consume as long as the milk used in the sauce has been pasteurized. Pasteurization is a process that destroys harmful bacteria and makes dairy products safe for consumption. So go ahead and enjoy your creamy pasta dishes with bechamel sauce during pregnancy, just make sure the milk used in the sauce is pasteurized.
Risks Associated With Eating Bechamel Sauce During Pregnancy
While bechamel sauce itself is safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some risks associated with consuming it if certain precautions are not taken. One of the main risks is the use of unpasteurized dairy products. As mentioned earlier, unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria such as listeria. If you’re making bechamel sauce at home, make sure to use pasteurized milk, butter, and cheese to avoid any potential risks.
Another risk associated with bechamel sauce is the addition of raw eggs. While most store-bought bechamel sauces do not contain raw eggs, homemade versions may include them. Raw eggs can carry salmonella, which can cause food poisoning and other complications during pregnancy. If you’re making bechamel sauce at home, make sure to cook it thoroughly to kill any potential bacteria.
Lastly, some types of cheese commonly used in bechamel sauce may pose a risk during pregnancy. Soft cheeses such as brie or camembert may contain harmful bacteria if they are unpasteurized. If you’re making bechamel sauce with cheese at home, make sure to use pasteurized cheese and cook it thoroughly.
Tips For Eating Bechamel Sauce Safely During Pregnancy
Here are some tips to ensure that you’re eating bechamel sauce safely during pregnancy:
1. Check the label: When buying bechamel sauce, make sure to check the label and ensure that the ingredients used are pasteurized. This will ensure that the sauce is safe to consume during pregnancy.
2. Cook it thoroughly: When using bechamel sauce in a recipe, make sure to cook it thoroughly. This means heating it until it’s steaming hot, which will help kill any harmful bacteria that may be present.
3. Store it properly: If you’re storing leftover bechamel sauce, make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent any bacteria from growing and causing foodborne illness.
4. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products: While pasteurized dairy products are safe to consume during pregnancy, unpasteurized dairy products can contain harmful bacteria that can cause infections and complications. So make sure to avoid unpasteurized dairy products, including cheese and milk.
By following these tips, you can safely enjoy bechamel sauce during pregnancy without any worries.
Alternatives To Bechamel Sauce For Pregnant Women.
While bechamel sauce is safe to consume during pregnancy, some women may prefer to avoid it or may be looking for alternative sauces. Here are some options:
1. Tomato-based sauces: Tomato sauce, marinara sauce, and other tomato-based sauces are a great alternative to bechamel sauce. They are low in fat and calories and contain lycopene, an antioxidant that is beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
2. Yogurt-based sauces: Yogurt-based sauces are a healthy and delicious alternative to bechamel sauce. They are low in fat and high in protein and calcium, which is important for the development of the baby’s bones.
3. Cream cheese-based sauces: Cream cheese-based sauces are a good alternative to bechamel sauce, as they have a similar creamy texture. However, they are higher in fat and calories, so they should be consumed in moderation.
4. Vegetable-based sauces: Vegetable-based sauces such as pesto, alfredo, or mushroom sauce are a healthy and flavorful alternative to bechamel sauce. They are low in fat and calories and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
It’s important to note that pregnant women should always consult with their doctor or a registered dietitian before making any significant changes to their diet.
