Cantaloupe and Melon During Pregnancy: Listeria and Cut-Melon Rules

The short answer: Yes, melon is fine during pregnancy when it is washed, freshly cut, and kept cold. CDC's pregnancy chart lists freshly cut melon or cut melon kept refrigerated for 7 or fewer days as safer, and cut melon left out for more than 2 hours (1 hour above 90°F) as riskier.

Why is cantaloupe a concern?

Bacteria on the rind. The FDA's produce advice for moms-to-be says to thoroughly rinse raw fruits and vegetables before cutting, especially fruits that require peeling or cutting, like cantaloupe and other melons, because bacteria can be on the outer rind or peel. CDC's Listeria prevention page lists cut melon among foods to handle carefully, and pregnant women are at higher risk for Listeria infection.

How do you wash a cantaloupe?

FDA advises rinsing under running water, and using a small vegetable brush to remove surface dirt. Do not use soap, detergents, or bleach. Cut away damaged or bruised areas. Our produce washing guide has the full steps.

How long does cut melon last?

Per CDC: in the refrigerator for 7 days or fewer, and out of the fridge for no more than 2 hours (1 hour if hotter than 90°F, such as a picnic or hot car).

Is pre-cut fruit from the store OK?

CDC's rule is about how long cut melon has been out of the fridge or in it. Keep pre-cut melon refrigerated and eat it within the time window; when you don't know how long a fruit tray sat out at a party, skip it.

Common questions

Does this apply to watermelon and honeydew?

FDA's advice says "cantaloupe and other melons." Food pages: cantaloupe, honeydew, watermelon, and casaba.

Is melon a good pregnancy food otherwise?

It can be part of a varied diet. Compare vitamin C sources in our vitamin C guide.

Sources: CDC safer food choices for pregnant women, CDC preventing Listeria, and FDA fruits, veggies and juices for moms-to-be. This guide is educational and does not replace prenatal care.