During pregnancy, food safety becomes extremely important. Certain foods can carry harmful bacteria like Listeria, which may affect both the mother and the unborn baby. Hence, it is imperative to know which foods to avoid during pregnancy. Follow the guidelines given by the expert to stay healthy during this crucial phase. Read on to know more about this.Dr Tanveer Aujla, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, spoke about the importance of eating right during pregnancy.Pregnancy is a time when women need to be extra careful about their diet and hygiene. The body undergoes many changes, and the immune system becomes slightly weaker, increasing the chances of infections in pregnant women. One such infection is caused by a bacterium called Listeria, which can be present in contaminated food. Here, the expert helps to explain Listeria and suggests food safety tips.What is listeria?Listeria is a type of bacteria that can cause an infection known as listeriosis. This infection usually spreads through contaminated food. In healthy individuals, it may cause mild symptoms such as fever, body aches, or stomach upset. However, during pregnancy, it can be more serious because the bacteria can pass to the unborn baby via the placenta. In some cases, it may lead to complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, or infection in the newborn. Hence, it is the need of the hour for pregnant women to pay attention to their diet.Food safety tips for pregnant womenPregnant women should follow these food safety tips: Prioritise food hygiene to prevent infectionsMake sure to wash fruits and vegetables properly before eatingFood should be cooked thoroughly, especially eggs and seafoodIt is also important to store food properlyAvoid eating food that has been kept outside for too long or stale foodSay no to raw milk or products made from unpasteurised milk, as they may contain harmful bacteriaStreet food that is kept uncovered for long hours can easily get contaminated with bacteriaLeftover food that is not stored properly in the refrigerator can develop bacteria if reheated multiple times, so discard leftover foodCertain soft cheeses or ready-to-eat refrigerated foods may carry Listeria if not stored properly. Therefore, make sure to store food as advised by the expert to avoid any health issues during pregnancy. Taking these vital precautions can go a long way in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and protecting the baby’s growth and development. So, pregnant women should take charge of their health and adhere to safe food practices. Stay vigilant!