When it comes time to nourish your body and that of your future baby, every food choice takes on a whole new dimension. Pregnancy is a time of delights, but also of doubts, especially when it comes to indulging in some good cheese. So, is it safe to consume beaufort during this delicate phase? We will review the concerns, the benefits, as well as a recipe based on this Savoy cheese to enjoy its flavors while exercising caution.
The risks associated with beaufort during pregnancy
Beaufort is a pressed cheese made from raw cow’s milk. Although it is exquisite, its consumption poses a major problem related to the potential presence of Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium responsible for listeriosis. Indeed, this food infection can lead to serious complications for the baby, such as infections of the central nervous system. Therefore, expectant mothers need to be cautious when it comes to cheeses made from raw milk.
Doctors and dietitians strongly recommend avoiding soft cheeses and those made from raw milk, with beaufort being part of this risk category. It is advisable to opt for pasteurized cheeses, which present a significantly lower risk. If the craving for good beaufort arises, it can be consumed in cooked form, as heat can kill undesired bacteria.
Alternatives and recommendations
Pregnant women are fortunate to have a good number of tasty and safe options. Cheeses like comté, gruyère, or emmental are very good alternatives. Cooked in hot dishes, these cheeses will not only provide a gustatory pleasure, but also the necessary safety in terms of health for the mother and her baby.
Delicious recipe with beaufort for special moments
For those who want to savor beaufort, one option would be to incorporate it into cooked recipes. A vegetable gratin with beaufort could delight your taste buds while keeping you safe. Imagine a dish where the cheese melts deliciously in the oven, enveloping crunchy vegetables. It’s not just a comforting dish, but also a creative way to combine safety and pleasure.
Ingredients:
– ½ cauliflower
– 2 carrots
– 1 broccoli
– 200g grated beaufort
– 20 cl fresh cream
– Salt and pepper
Preparation:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C.
2. Wash and cut the vegetables into small florets.
3. Steam cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Arrange the vegetables in an oven-safe dish.
5. In a bowl, mix the fresh cream and the grated beaufort. Add salt and pepper.
6. Pour the mixture over the vegetables.
7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until desired golden color.
Here is a comforting and tasty dish that allows you to enjoy beaufort while taking care of your health.
Words from mothers
For those who still have questions about beaufort during pregnancy, there is no universal answer. Every experience is unique. For example, a pregnant friend felt heavy-hearted when giving up her favorite cheeses. After discovering the vegetable gratin I prepared during one of our evenings, she was able to rediscover the taste of beaufort in a safe way. By ensuring it was well-cooked, she enjoyed it with no worries, and she found that this alternative provided a delicious satisfaction for her palate while fitting into a balanced diet.
