Can I Eat Arby’s While Pregnant?
Pregnancy can evoke a range of emotions and, surprisingly, cravings. In fact, some of these cravings can be quite specific, like a yearning for Arby’s roast beef sandwiches. But is it safe for a pregnant woman to eat Arby’s? This article seeks to answer this question in a detailed manner.
Understanding Pregnancy Cravings
Craving Arby’s
It’s not uncommon for pregnant women to have cravings, sometimes for foods they didn’t usually enjoy before pregnancy. If you’re pregnant and suddenly find yourself craving Arby’s roast beef sandwich , you’re not alone.
The Key Controversy: Arby’s Roast Beef Sandwich and Deli Meat
Deli meats, including the ones used in Arby’s roast beef sandwiches, have been a subject of debate for pregnant women. While they are a good source of protein, they also carry certain risks.
Risks of Undercooked and Cold Cuts
Cold cuts or deli meat are often enjoyed straight from the fridge, but they can pose risks if they’re undercooked or eaten cold by pregnant women. These risks mainly revolve around bacteria such as Listeria, which can survive in cold temperatures and harm both the mother and baby.
Arby’s and Its Offerings
The Regular Roast Beef Sandwich
Arby’s is famous for its regular roast beef sandwich. Served hot, this roast beef sandwich consists of thinly sliced roast beef stacked high inside a warm, toasted bun. However, its temperature is a crucial factor to consider.
Hot Roast Beef Sandwich
This is another popular offering from Arby’s. Served with piping hot roast beef and melted cheese, this hot roast beef sandwich a tempting choice for anyone craving a hot sandwich.
Ensuring Safety: The Importance of Heat
Heat is a critical factor for pregnant women eating deli meats. It’s advised to heat the meats until they are steaming hot, which is typically at an internal temperature of 165°F, to kill potential bacteria. So, if you’re wondering if you can eat a hot roast beef sandwich from Arby’s, the answer is yes, as long as it is hot and freshly made.
What About Cheese?
Hard Cheese and Pasteurized Milk
When it comes to cheese, hard cheeses and those made from pasteurized milk are safe for pregnant women. Arby’s uses cheeses such as cheddar and Swiss cheese in it’s roast beef sandwich, which are considered safe if they are made from pasteurized milk.
Talking About Listeria
Listeria is a bacteria that can cause a rare but serious infection. Pregnant women are more susceptible to listeriosis because of their lowered immunity. Thus, food hygiene becomes even more crucial during pregnancy.
Cross Contamination: A Risk Not to Ignore
Cross-contamination can happen when bacteria or other microorganisms are unintentionally transferred from one substance or object to another. It’s crucial to ensure that the foods are handled and cooked properly to avoid this risk.
The Verdict: Can You Eat Arby’s While Pregnant?
Safely Eat At Arby’s: A Registered Dietitian’s Perspective
As per registered dietitians, it’s perfectly safe to eat at Arby’s while pregnant, provided you’re making smart choices. Go for hot sandwiches over cold ones and always check the cheese used in your sandwich.
Precautions to Take When Eating Out
Ensure the food is freshly and thoroughly cooked and served hot. If you’re unsure, request the server to heat your sandwich until it’s steaming.
Dealing with Cravings
It’s fine to indulge your cravings occasionally, but it’s important to maintain a balanced diet overall during pregnancy. If you’re craving Arby’s, it’s okay to indulge once in a while, keeping the precautions in mind.
Conclusion: Eating Arby’s While Pregnant
So, can you eat Arby’s while pregnant? Yes, you can, with certain precautions. Always choose hot, freshly cooked sandwiches and ensure that the cheese used is safe for pregnant women. But as always, moderation is key.
FAQ’s
Can I eat Arby’s roast beef sandwiches while pregnant?
Yes, you can, as long as the sandwich is served hot and freshly made.
Is the cheese at Arby’s safe for pregnant women?
Yes, Arby’s uses cheeses such as cheddar and Swiss cheese, which are safe if made from pasteurized milk.
What risks does deli meat pose for pregnant women?
The primary risk when you eat deli meat like cold roast beef is listeriosis, a bacterial infection caused by Listeria, which can survive in cold temperatures.
Can I eat cold sandwiches from Arby’s while pregnant?
It’s advisable to avoid cold sandwiches during pregnancy due to the risk of Listeria.
What should I do if I’m craving Arby’s while pregnant?
It’s fine to indulge your cravings occasionally. Opt for hot sandwiches and avoid eating cold meats.
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