Can You Eat Cotija Cheese While Pregnant?

Are you a cheese lover who’s expecting a baby? You might be wondering if it’s safe to indulge in your favorite types of cheese, including Cotija cheese. This traditional Mexican hard cheese is a popular ingredient in many dishes, but is it safe to eat Cotija cheese while pregnant? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on how the cheese is made and processed.

In this blog post on Pregnancy Boss, we’ll explore the safety of Cotija cheese during pregnancy and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. From the benefits of eating Cotija cheese to the concerns and alternatives, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find out if you can eat Cotija cheese while pregnant!

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What is Cotija Cheese?

Cotija cheese is a type of Mexican cheese that is known for its salty and tangy flavor. Here are some key details about Cotija cheese:

• Cotija cheese is a semi-hard aged cheese made with natural ingredients like part-skimmed grade A milk and sea salt.
• Traditionally, Cotija cheese is made with cow’s milk and is a seasonal cheese produced by artisan cheese makers living high in the mountains.
• Cotija cheese has a strong authentic flavor, similar to Parmesan cheese, and can be used crumbled or grated as a versatile topping to many dishes.
• It is a hard, cream-colored cheese that is aged under controlled conditions.
• Cotija cheese is available in various sizes, including 10 oz, 3.5 lbs, and 5 lbs.
• It is important to store Cotija cheese properly under refrigeration to prevent spoilage.

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Can You Eat Cotija Cheese While Pregnant?

The answer is yes, you can eat Cotija cheese while pregnant as long as it is made from pasteurized milk. Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria such as Listeria, which can cause serious health problems for both the mother and the baby. It is important to check the label of the cheese to ensure that it is made from pasteurized milk. However, it is still important to exercise caution and not consume excessive amounts of Cotija cheese or any other type of cheese during pregnancy.

As with all foods, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before adding Cotija cheese to your diet during pregnancy. Overall, Cotija cheese can be a safe and delicious addition to a pregnant woman’s diet when consumed in moderation and made from pasteurized milk.

Cotija cheese is considered safe for consumption while pregnant, provided it is store-bought and clearly indicates in the ingredient list that it is produced from pasteurized milk. It is best to steer clear of cotija cheese made from unpasteurized milk.

What is the Nutritional Value of Cotija Cheese?

Here is the amount of nutrients that a 1 oz serving of Cotija cheese provides to pregnant women:

• Protein: One ounce of Cotija cheese contains about 7 grams of protein.
• Calcium: Cotija cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones and teeth during pregnancy.
• Vitamin A: Cotija cheese is a good source of vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy eyesight and boosting the immune system during pregnancy.
• Fat: One ounce of Cotija cheese contains about 6 grams of fat.
• Sodium: Cotija cheese can be high in sodium, with one ounce containing about 1820 mg of sodium.

It is important to consume Cotija cheese in moderation due to its high sodium and fat content, and to check the label to ensure that it is made from pasteurized milk to reduce the risk of contamination.

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What are potential health benefits of eating Cotija Cheese while Pregnant?

Here are some of the potential health benefits of eating Cotija cheese while pregnant:

• High in calcium: Cotija cheese is particularly high in calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and bones.
• Good source of protein: Cotija cheese is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body.
• Rich in vitamins: Cotija cheese is a good source of vitamins B2, B12, and vitamin A. These vitamins are important for maintaining healthy skin, eyes, and nervous system.
• May help control blood pressure: Cotija cheese contains sodium, which can help control blood volume and blood pressure. However, it is important to consume Cotija cheese in moderation due to its high sodium content.
• May help prevent vitamin deficiencies: Cotija cheese is a good source of vitamins B2, B12, and vitamin A. Consuming Cotija cheese in moderation may help prevent deficiencies of these vitamins.

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What are potential health risks of eating Cotija Cheese while Pregnant?

Here are some of the potential health risks of eating Cotija cheese while pregnant:

• High in fat and sodium: Cotija cheese can be high in fat and sodium, which can contribute to health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. It is important to consume Cotija cheese in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
• Risk of contamination: Like all types of cheese, Cotija cheese can be at risk of contamination with harmful bacteria such as Listeria and E. coli. Pregnant women, young children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to these types of infections. It is important to check the label of the cheese to ensure that it is made from pasteurized milk and to store and handle the cheese properly to reduce the risk of contamination.
• Spoilage: Cotija cheese can spoil if it is not stored properly or if it is past its expiration date. Eating spoiled Cotija cheese can cause food poisoning and other health problems. It is important to check the cheese for any signs of spoilage, such as an off smell, discoloration, or strange taste, before consuming it.

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Safety Food Infographic for Pregnant Women

What are some dishes that pair well with Cotija Cheese?

Cotija cheese is a versatile cheese that pairs well with many dishes. Here are some examples of dishes that pair well with Cotija cheese:

• Mexican corn dip: A creamy and cheesy dip made with Cotija cheese, corn, and spices.
• Salsa roja: A spicy tomato-based salsa that is topped with crumbled Cotija cheese.
• Chile rellenos: Stuffed peppers that are often topped with Cotija cheese.
• Mexican street corn (elote): Grilled corn on the cob that is coated with a mixture of Cotija cheese, mayonnaise, and spices.
• Mexican street corn salad: A salad made with grilled corn, Cotija cheese, and a variety of other ingredients such as tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro.
• Tostadas: Crispy tortillas that are topped with refried beans, meat, vegetables, and Cotija cheese.
• Tacos: Soft or crispy tortillas that are filled with meat, vegetables, and Cotija cheese.
• Black bean soup: A hearty soup made with black beans, vegetables, and topped with Cotija cheese.
• Enchiladas: Rolled tortillas that are filled with meat, cheese, and topped with a sauce and Cotija cheese.
• Quesadillas: Tortillas that are filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables, and topped with Cotija cheese.
• Nachos: Crispy tortilla chips that are topped with cheese, meat, vegetables, and Cotija cheese.
• Salads: A variety of salads can be topped with Cotija cheese, such as Caesar salad or a salad with mixed greens, avocado, and Cotija cheese.
• Beans: Cotija cheese can be crumbled over a variety of beans, such as black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans.
• Steamed vegetables: Cotija cheese can be crumbled over steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus.
• Pasta dishes: Cotija cheese can be used as a topping for pasta dishes, such as pasta carbonara or pasta with roasted vegetables.

Cotija cheese can also be paired with other ingredients such as cilantro, limes, corn tortillas, corn, onions, and avocados to create delicious and flavorful dishes.

Where can I buy Cotija Cheese?

You can buy Cotija cheese at various retailers. Here are some options:

• Amazon: You can buy Cotija Cheese on Amazon in a 10 oz size.
• Costco Business Center: You can find Cotija Cheese in a 3.5 lb size at Costco Business Center.
• Ralphs: Ralphs offers Cotija Grating Cheese in a 15 oz size.
• Instacart: You can use Instacart to have Cotija Cheese delivered to your doorstep or choose curbside or in-store pickup. It is available in a 16 oz size. You can also find other products through Instacart.
• Sam’s Club: Sam’s Club offers Cotija in a 3.5 lb size.
• Safeway: Safeway carries Queso Cheese in a 10 oz size.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cotija cheese while pregnant can be a safe and delicious addition to your diet. The key is to ensure that you’re consuming pasteurized Cotija cheese and adhering to recommended serving sizes. This flavorful cheese can elevate your meals and provide essential nutrients that contribute to a healthy pregnancy journey. Remember to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods to support your well-being and that of your baby.

Enjoy your pregnancy journey and the delightful flavors of Cotija cheese in your meals!

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