Ricotta made from pasteurized milk is considered safe during pregnancy per FDA guidelines. Most commercial ricotta in the US is pasteurized — check the label to confirm. Ricotta provides calcium (257mg per cup) and protein (14g per cup), making it a useful pregnancy food.
Key Takeaway: Commercial ricotta is almost always pasteurized and considered safe. Check the label. Avoid artisanal/farm-made ricotta that may use raw milk. Ricotta is a soft cheese with high moisture — unpasteurized versions carry Listeria risk.
Ricotta works well in cooked dishes (lasagna, stuffed shells, baked ziti) where heating provides additional safety. Even in uncooked applications (on toast, in dips), pasteurized ricotta is considered safe.
For the complete soft cheese guide, see soft cheese during pregnancy.
Bottom Line: Pasteurized ricotta = considered safe. Check labels. Most US commercial brands are pasteurized. Use freely in both cooked and uncooked preparations.