Methodology

The three-verdict system

Every food in our database is tagged with one of three verdicts. We keep it simple so you can make a decision in seconds.

• SAFE — Routinely recommended during pregnancy when prepared appropriately. We tell you the "appropriate" part because preparation matters (e.g., washing, cooking temperature).
• LIMIT — Acceptable in moderation but with caveats. We give you a daily limit, a serving size, and an explanation of why.
• AVOID — Has a credible mainstream recommendation against consumption during pregnancy. We explain the specific risk and offer safe alternatives.

How a verdict is assigned

1. Sourcing. We consult the WHO, NHS, CDC, FDA, ACOG, and regional regulators (e.g., FSSAI in India, EFSA in Europe).
2. Cross-checking. Where guidance differs between regions, we present the most cautious mainstream view by default and note where regional recommendations diverge.
3. Considerations. Trimester, preparation method, allergen status, and culturally relevant preparation styles are factored in.
4. Drafting. Writers produce a structured page covering the verdict, reasoning, nutritional context, alternatives, and FAQ.
5. Review. A senior editor verifies every cited source.
6. Publication. The page is published with a Last-updated date and feedback widget.
7. Maintenance. Pages are re-reviewed at minimum every 12 months or sooner when guidance changes.

Calculators

Our calculators use peer-reviewed clinical formulas — for example:

• Due date: Naegele's rule (LMP + 280 days) with conception-date and IVF-transfer-date variants.
• Pregnancy weight gain: Institute of Medicine 2009 ranges, by pre-pregnancy BMI.
• Fetal weight estimation: Hadlock formula.
• Baby percentiles: WHO Child Growth Standards.

Each calculator page links the original source of the formula it uses.

Recalls

We monitor U.S. FDA and USDA recall feeds, NHS England product alerts, and equivalent regional feeds where available. Alerts that affect pregnant users (e.g., listeria, foodborne illness) are surfaced in the Recalls section.

What we explicitly do NOT do

• We do not diagnose, prescribe, or provide individualized medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer.
• We do not let advertisers, sponsors, or affiliates influence verdicts.
• We do not publish unsourced clinical claims.

Limitations

Guidance evolves and not every region's most current recommendation is captured the moment it changes. We note this transparently with each page's "Last updated" date. If you find something out of date, please email editorial@bumpbites.health.