Pregnancy can be a time of intense cravings and food aversions. And when it comes to satisfying those cravings, Raising Cane’s chicken fingers with their famous Canes sauce are hard to resist.
But for expectant mothers, the question of whether or not Canes sauce is safe during pregnancy can be a cause for concern. With conflicting information and opinions online, it can be difficult to know what to believe.
In this article, we’ll explore the safety of Canes sauce during pregnancy and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not to indulge in this delicious condiment.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
Is Canes Sauce Safe During Pregnancy?
The short answer is yes, Canes sauce is generally safe to eat during pregnancy. The sauce is made with mayonnaise, which does contain eggs. However, it is likely that the eggs used in a commercial establishment like Raising Cane’s are pasteurized, which greatly reduces the risk of salmonella.
It’s important to note that while anchovies are considered safe to eat during pregnancy, some people may choose to avoid them due to concerns about mercury levels. If you have any concerns about the ingredients in Canes sauce, it’s always best to ask at the restaurant before ordering.
What Is Canes Sauce And What Are Its Ingredients?
Canes sauce is a popular dipping sauce served at the fast-food chain Raising Cane’s. The sauce is made with a mayonnaise and ketchup base, and includes Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, pepper, and Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning. However, the secret to its unique flavor is the addition of liquid smoke.
It’s important to note that the mayonnaise used in Canes sauce does contain eggs. While it is likely that the eggs used in a commercial establishment like Raising Cane’s are pasteurized, it’s always best to ask at the restaurant before ordering if you have any concerns about food safety during pregnancy.
Potential Risks Of Consuming Canes Sauce During Pregnancy
While Canes sauce is generally safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some potential risks to be aware of. Ready-made sauces like Canes sauce contain high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar, which are not favorable during pregnancy. Sodium and sugar in a sauce can potentially impede the normal progression of pregnancy. Additionally, unpasteurized dairy and eggs can lead to serious health complications during pregnancy.
One of the main concerns with Canes sauce is the use of raw eggs in the mayonnaise. Raw eggs can be breeding grounds for salmonella, which can cause digestive distress and, in rare cases, uterine cramping. While it is likely that the eggs used in a commercial establishment like Raising Cane’s are pasteurized, it’s always best to ask at the restaurant before ordering.
It’s also important to note that while Canes sauce is generally safe in restricted quantities, it does contain carbs and should be consumed in moderation. Pregnant women should also be aware of where raw egg might be lurking in other foods such as lightly scrambled eggs, poached eggs, homemade mayonnaise, some salad dressings, homemade ice cream and cake icings.
Benefits Of Consuming Canes Sauce During Pregnancy
Canes sauce can be a delicious addition to your pregnancy diet, and there are some potential benefits to consuming it in moderation. While ready-made sauces can contain high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar, Canes sauce is made with simple ingredients like mayonnaise and spices. This means that it can be a healthier alternative to other sauces that may contain more artificial additives.
In addition, Canes sauce can also provide a source of protein from the chicken fingers it is typically served with. Protein is an essential nutrient during pregnancy as it helps to support the growth and development of your baby’s tissues and organs.
Furthermore, consuming Canes sauce in moderation can satisfy your cravings without compromising your health. Cravings are common during pregnancy, and indulging in them occasionally can help you maintain a balanced diet and prevent feelings of deprivation.
Expert Opinions On The Safety Of Canes Sauce During Pregnancy
According to experts, Canes sauce is generally safe to eat during pregnancy. The sauce is made with mayonnaise, which contains eggs. However, it is likely that the eggs used in a commercial establishment like Raising Cane’s are pasteurized, which greatly reduces the risk of salmonella.
It’s important to note that pregnant women should be cautious about consuming hot and spicy sauces as they can cause acidity, which can add to discomfort and cause acid reflux. While hot sauces do have some benefits, it is best to reduce intake during pregnancy.
In terms of other sauces, fully cooked sauces like tomato sauce, pesto sauce, alfredo sauce, bbq sauce, teriyaki, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise (as long as it hasn’t gone bad), cocktail sauce, and Chick-fil-A’s honey barbecue sauce are generally considered safe. Most pregnancy restrictions are for the possibility of food poisoning. However, hollandaise from scratch would be considered “iffy” as even though it’s made over a hot water bath, the eggs are not necessarily fully cooked. Most restaurants use packets though, which would be safe. Aioli is another raw egg sauce that should be avoided.
It’s important to note that raw eggs can be breeding grounds for salmonella and can cause digestive distress and uterine cramping. While you’re not likely to consume raw eggs in Canes sauce or other commercially prepared sauces, pregnant women should be aware of where raw eggs might be lurking such as lightly scrambled eggs, poached eggs, homemade mayonnaise, some salad dressings, homemade ice cream and cake icings.
Alternatives To Canes Sauce For Pregnant Women
If you are pregnant and prefer to err on the side of caution when it comes to consuming raw eggs, there are some alternatives to Canes sauce that you can consider. One option is to ask for a different sauce or condiment that does not contain raw eggs. For example, many restaurants offer ketchup, mustard, or barbecue sauce as alternatives.
Another option is to make your own dipping sauce at home using pasteurized eggs or egg substitutes. You can use plain Greek yogurt or sour cream as a base and add your preferred seasonings and spices. Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are common ingredients in Canes sauce that you can use in your homemade version.
If you are concerned about the mercury levels in anchovies, you can omit them from the recipe or substitute with capers or olives for a similar salty flavor. Remember to always check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet during pregnancy.
