Can pregnant women eat freshwater mussels?

Pregnant women may consume freshwater mussels in moderation. Freshwater mussels are rich in protein, calcium, iron, and other trace elements, as well as containing some fat—nutrients beneficial for meeting the increased nutritional demands during pregnancy. However, freshwater mussels are considered “cold” in nature according to traditional Chinese medicine; therefore, excessive consumption is not recommended for pregnant women, as it may increase the risk of miscarriage. Additionally, freshwater mussels may harbor certain microorganisms; thus, pregnant women must thoroughly clean them and ensure they are fully cooked before consumption to prevent diarrhea.