Can You Eat Pork Rinds When Pregnant? Experts Explain

Pregnancy can be a time of intense cravings and food aversions, leaving many expectant mothers wondering what they can and cannot eat.

One snack that often comes to mind is pork rinds, also known as pork scratchings or chicharrones. These crispy, salty snacks are a popular choice for those looking for a low-carb, high-protein snack.

But can you indulge in this guilty pleasure while pregnant? In this article, we’ll explore the safety of consuming pork rinds during pregnancy and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

So, grab a bag of pork rinds and let’s dive in!

Can You Eat Pork Rinds When Pregnant?

The short answer is yes, you can eat pork rinds when pregnant. Pork rinds are considered safe to consume during pregnancy, as long as they are cooked at high temperatures.

During pregnancy, women are at a higher risk of food poisoning, which is why it’s essential to ensure that any meat products are cooked thoroughly. Pork rinds are cooked at high temperatures, which kills off any potential bacteria that could cause harm to you or your baby.

Commercially-prepared pork rinds have a low water content, which also prevents bacteria from growing and making you sick. This means that you can enjoy pork rinds straight out of the bag without worrying about food safety.

What Are Pork Rinds And How Are They Made?

Pork rinds are a popular snack made from the skin of pigs. The process of making pork rinds involves simmering the pork skin in boiling water, cutting it into bite-size pieces known as “pellets,” and chilling them for at least four hours to allow the fat to solidify. The fat is then removed and discarded, and the pellets are left in a low-heat oven for about eight hours to remove as much moisture as possible.

The final step in making pork rinds is frying them in peanut oil, vegetable oil, or lard. During the frying process, any remaining moisture in the skin evaporates when it hits the hot oil, causing the skin to puff up. The pork rinds are then seasoned while still hot and cooled, resulting in the crispy and savory snack we know and love.

Pork rinds go by different names and vary slightly in different cuisines. In Central and South America, they are called chicharrons and often have some meat attached to the skin as well. In the Philippines, they are also called chicharron and can be made from pork skins or pork belly strips. In Thailand, deep-fried pork rinds are known as kaeb moo and can be made with just pork skin or with a bit of fat attached. In the American South, pork rinds are called cracklings or cracklins and have a bit of fat and meat attached.

Nutritional Value Of Pork Rinds

Pork rinds are a good source of protein, providing about 9 grams per 14-gram serving. They are also an excellent source of monounsaturated fat, with about 5 grams of fat per serving. This combination of protein and fat makes pork rinds a good choice for pregnant women who need to increase their protein intake to support the growth and development of their baby.

Pork rinds are also low in carbohydrates, with 0 grams of carbohydrates per serving. This makes them a great snack option for pregnant women who are trying to manage their blood sugar levels or who are following a low-carbohydrate diet.

In terms of vitamins and minerals, pork rinds are not a good source. However, they do contain small amounts of calcium and potassium, which are important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.

It’s important to note that pork rinds are high in sodium, with about 270 milligrams per serving. Pregnant women who have high blood pressure or who are at risk of developing high blood pressure should limit their sodium intake and consume pork rinds in moderation.

Pregnancy Cravings And Food Aversions

Pregnancy cravings and food aversions are a normal part of pregnancy. It’s not entirely clear why women experience these changes in their taste preferences, but it’s believed to be due to hormonal changes.

Some women may crave salty foods like pork rinds during pregnancy, while others may experience aversions to certain foods like meats, eggs, and spicy or greasy foods. It’s important to note that while cravings and aversions are common, they can also vary from woman to woman.

If you experience food aversions during pregnancy, it’s usually nothing to worry about. However, if you find that you’re unable to eat most foods, it could affect your baby’s growth. In this case, it’s important to discuss your weight gain with your doctor.

It’s also possible for pregnant women to experience cravings for non-food items like dirt or chalk. This condition is called pica and can be a sign of an underlying medical problem. If you experience pica, it’s important to call your doctor right away.

Potential Risks Of Consuming Pork Rinds While Pregnant

While pork rinds are generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some potential risks that should be taken into consideration. First of all, pork rinds are high in fat and sodium, which can lead to elevated blood pressure and other health issues. Pregnant women should limit their intake of high-fat and high-sodium foods to avoid these potential complications.

Additionally, pork rinds are not a good source of vitamins and minerals, which means that they do not provide any significant nutritional benefits for pregnant women. While they may be a tasty snack, it’s important to remember that they should not be relied upon as a source of nutrients during pregnancy.

Lastly, it’s important to note that some women may experience digestive issues when consuming pork rinds or other high-fat snacks during pregnancy. This is because the digestive system can become more sensitive during pregnancy, making it harder to digest certain foods. If you experience any discomfort or digestive issues after consuming pork rinds, it may be best to avoid them altogether.

Alternatives To Pork Rinds For A Healthy Pregnancy Snack

While pork rinds may satisfy your pregnancy cravings, they are not the healthiest snack option. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives that can provide a healthier and more nutritious snack option for pregnant women.

One alternative to pork rinds is roasted chickpeas. Chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like folate and iron. They also have a crunchy texture that can satisfy your craving for something crispy. You can roast them with spices like paprika or cumin for a flavorful snack.

Another alternative is air-popped popcorn. Popcorn is a whole grain that is high in fiber and low in calories. It also contains antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage. You can sprinkle some nutritional yeast or herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.

If you’re looking for a savory snack, roasted nuts like almonds or cashews can be a great option. Nuts are high in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which can help keep you full and satisfied. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium.

For a sweet snack option, fresh fruits like berries or sliced apples can be a great choice. Fruits are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a healthy pregnancy. You can pair them with some nut butter like almond or peanut butter for added protein and healthy fats.