BBQ Food Safety During Pregnancy ☀️
- Tazmin Lewis
- Jun 26
- 3 min read

I don't know about you but in the UK summer BBQ season is one of the most enjoyable times of the year, but when you're pregnant, outdoor cooking requires extra attention to food safety. The combination of hot weather, outdoor conditions, and the social nature of BBQs can create perfect conditions for foodborne illness if proper precautions aren't taken.
Don't worry! You don't have to skip the summer fun! With the preparation and caution, you can safely enjoy delicious BBQ meals throughout your pregnancy.
Why BBQ Food Safety Matters More During Pregnancy 🔥
During pregnancy, your immune system adjusts to prevent your body from rejecting the baby. This makes you more susceptible to foodborne illnesses, which can cause serious harm to you and your baby. You can read more about the risks of food safety in pregnancy in my guide by clicking here.
Outdoor cooking can provide a more bacteria encouraging environment. why?
Higher temperatures accelerate bacterial growth
Limited access to proper handwashing facilities
Extended cooking and serving times
Multiple people handling food
Potential for cross contamination between raw and cooked foods
Essential BBQ Food Safety Equipment

Food Thermometer: This is your most important tool for ensuring meat is cooked to safe temperatures whilst also not turning your food into coal! 🧯
Coolers with Ice: Multiple coolers allow you to separate raw meats from other foods and keep everything at safe temperatures.
Separate Cutting Boards: Use different colored boards for raw meat, cooked foods, and vegetables to prevent cross contamination.
Hand Sanitiser: For times when soap and water aren't readily available.
Clean Plates and Utensils: Never use the same plates or utensils for raw and cooked foods without washing them first.
Pre BBQ Preparation
Marinating Safely
Always marinate in the refrigerator, never at room temperature
If you want to use marinade as a sauce, set aside a portion before adding raw meat,
Defrosting Guidelines
Thaw frozen meat in the refrigerator, allowing 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds
For quicker thawing, use cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes
Never thaw meat at room temperature or in hot water
Cook meat immediately after thawing
Packing Your Coolers
Use a 2:1 ratio of ice to food
Pack raw meat in a separate cooler from ready to eat foods
Keep coolers in the shade and avoid opening them frequently
Pack beverages in a separate cooler since it will be opened more often
During the BBQ
Temperature Control
Keep cold foods at 4°C or below until ready to cook
Don't leave perishable foods out for more than 1 hour when the temperature is above 32°C
In cooler weather don't leave perishables out for more than 2 hours
I have been at numerous BBQs where raw meat is sat on the side for several hours before cooking because there is no space in the fridge. 😬
Special Considerations for Pregnant Women
Foods to Avoid at BBQs
Undercooked meat of any kind
Deli meats unless heated to steaming
Raw or undercooked eggs if they did not have a lion stamp on in homemade mayonnaise, aioli, or salad dressings
Safe BBQ Alternatives
Well done burgers: Ask for your burger to be well cooked, Grilled chicken
Fish and seafood: Cook until opaque and flakes easily
Vegetarian options: Grilled vegetables, veggie burgers, and plant-based proteins
Fruit: Grilled pineapple, peaches, or banana make delicious desserts
Managing Leftovers Safely
Refrigerating Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers within 1 or 2 hours
Store leftovers in shallow containers to cool quickly
Use leftovers within 3-4 days
Reheating Safely
Reheat all leftovers to steaming hot
Heat sauces, soups, and gravies to a rolling boil
When in doubt, throw it out – don't risk food poisoning

Consider bringing your own items if you're attending someone else's BBQ and aren't sure about their food safety practices. Most hosts will understand your need to be extra cautious during pregnancy.
And don't forget to stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the event
Avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy
Limit caffeine intake
Consider electrolyte drinks if you're sweating heavily
Want more comprehensive food safety guidance? Download my complete Food Safety Guide for detailed information on safe food preparation, storage, and handling during pregnancy, including additional BBQ tips and recipes.
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