Can I Eat Wasabi While Pregnant?

Wasabi, also known as Japanese Horseradish, is a green paste used in various Japanese dishes, such as sushi and sashimi. With a long history worldwide, wasabi has become an essential part of culinary tradition.

In stores and supermarkets, we can easily buy wasabi powder and paste. Some wonder: Can I eat wasabi while pregnant? As a professional seasoning manufacturer, Jolion Foods recommends that pregnant women avoid it. Let's dive in.

What is Wasabi?

Wasabi is a spicy condiment traditionally made from Horseradish or the root of the wasabi plant (Wasabia japonica). Jolion Foods' high-quality wasabi is made of water, vegetable oil, Horseradish, sorbitol, starch, salt, lactose, and flavouring. Click here to learn more product.

The Horseradish is the main ingredient that provides the distinct flavor and heat. Wasabi offers several health benefits. On the one hand, it can help fight infections due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, which may improve lung function. On the other hand, its strong flavor can help reduce appetite and cravings.

Why should pregnant women avoid wasabi?

Wasabi is not harmful to humans. People usually use it as a seasoning and eat it with other foods, such as sushi, sashimi. However, sashimi or raw shellfish and uncooked meat may contain harmful bacteria or parasites, leading to foodborne illness (also called food poisoning), such as fever, abdominal cramps, diarrhoea, and vomiting. Once sicked, pregnant women are easier developing complications, and in some cases, they can even affect the health of the fetus.

Some people think eating sushi and sashimi with wasabi is safe because wasabi can kill bacteria and parasites. In fact, wasabi is only active against bacteria due to its antimicrobial agent, 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate. As for parasites, it is not helpful. To ensure the safety of pregnant women, we suggest consuming sushi only with cooked seafood and vegetables.

What about using wasabi as a seasoning in a salad?

Generally, small amounts of wasabi are considered safe, but it’s important to observe moderation. Genuine wasabi is derived from the Wasabia japonica plant or Horseradish, which may cause strong reactions in some individuals. Expecting mothers often wonder if consuming wasabi is safe during pregnancy. Wasabi has antioxidant properties that may contribute positively to overall health. It contains isothiocyanates, which have been linked to anti-inflammatory effects. Excessive consumption can lead to gastrointestinal distress. In this case, we recommend that pregnant women consult their healthcare providers before consuming wasabi, particularly given its potential effects on sensitive stomachs.

Conclusion

While there may not be a clear answer to the question "Can I eat wasabi while pregnant?" Using moderation and seeking advice from medical specialists will help assure safety.

At JOLION Foods, we're dedicated to offering premium wasabi products ideal for a range of culinary applications, while also supporting our business partners with reliable OEM and ODM services. We are committed to helping you succeed in the food business by offering goods that meet safety and flavor requirements for all customers, especially expectant women.