Can Shrimp Ceviche Make You Sick? What to Know About Safety, Cilantro-Free Recipes, and Pregnancy
Shrimp ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with lime juice, fresh vegetables, and herbs. But many people wonder: can shrimp ceviche make you sick? And what if you want to enjoy shrimp ceviche without cilantro, or you’re curious about whether it’s safe to eat shrimp ceviche during pregnancy? Let’s break it down.
Can Shrimp Ceviche Make You Sick?
The main risk with shrimp ceviche is that the shrimp is not cooked with heat. Instead, it’s marinated in citrus juice, which gives it a cooked texture but doesn’t always kill harmful bacteria or parasites.
Eating undercooked or raw shrimp can increase your chances of foodborne illness, including:
- Bacterial infections (like Vibrio)
- Parasitic infections
- Digestive upset if the shrimp isn’t very fresh
👉 To reduce the risk, always:
- Use only the freshest, high-quality shrimp.
- Buy from a trusted fishmonger or supermarket.
- Prepare ceviche immediately and keep it chilled until serving.
- Shrimp Ceviche Without Cilantro
Not everyone loves cilantro — some even find it tastes soapy due to genetics. The good news? You can make a delicious shrimp ceviche without it. Instead, you can use:
- Fresh parsley
- Basil
- Mint
- Or simply leave out the herbs entirely
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide, check out our shrimp ceviche without cilantro recipe Greek - Style Shrimp Cerviche
— it’s bright, refreshing, and perfect for anyone who doesn’t enjoy cilantro.
Shrimp Ceviche and Pregnancy
One of the most common questions is whether it’s safe to eat shrimp ceviche during pregnancy. The short answer is no. Because ceviche involves raw or undercooked seafood, it poses a higher risk of: Listeria, Salmonella, Other harmful bacteria
Pregnant women are advised to avoid raw fish and shellfish to protect both themselves and their baby. If you’re craving the flavor of ceviche while pregnant, you can try a fully cooked shrimp ceviche alternative: cook the shrimp first (boil or steam), then marinate it in lime juice with your favorite veggies and herbs.