Is it safe to have Enoki mushrooms during pregnancy?

Enoki mushrooms may contain listeria monocytogenes, a form of bacteria which causes listeriosis. Listeria can be found in fresh produce, dairy and even mushrooms. Symptoms of listeriosis can include muscle aches, fever, nausea, and even diarrhea. An estimated 1,600 people get listeriosis each year.

Listeriosis can cause pregnant women to deliver a stillborn baby, undergo miscarriages or premature deliveries. Its best for pregnant women to avoid enoki mushrooms if you are eating outside. If cooking yourself, make sure that your mushrooms are cooked thoroughly to reduce your risk of getting sick. Thorough cooking kills the harmful bacteria.