Is Peracetic acid poultry wash Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in 1 country/region (including European Union), though the FDA still allows it in the US. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag Peracetic acid poultry wash on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: chicken, fresh-cut produce.
TL;DR: Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
Peracetic acid poultry wash: regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Banned |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | high |
| Where it shows up | chicken, fresh-cut produce |
What is Peracetic acid poultry wash?
Peracetic acid poultry wash is an antimicrobial chemical wash applied to US poultry and produce.
Why is Peracetic acid poultry wash used in food?
It is used to bleach, preserve, color or process food more cheaply at industrial scale.
What regulators have flagged about Peracetic acid poultry wash
Not permitted as a carcass decontaminant in the EU.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of Peracetic acid poultry wash with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from Peracetic acid poultry wash →
Audited products that don't contain Peracetic acid poultry wash.
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Peracetic acid poultry wash and pregnancy: common questions
Is Peracetic acid poultry wash banned anywhere?
Yes. Peracetic acid poultry wash is banned in European Union. The FDA still allows it in the US.
Should I avoid Peracetic acid poultry wash during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What foods contain Peracetic acid poultry wash?
Commonly found in chicken, fresh-cut produce. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for Peracetic acid poultry wash.
What can I use instead of Peracetic acid poultry wash?
Choose minimally processed and EU-imported foods, read labels for these additives, and scan barcodes with BannedPantry to flag them. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains Peracetic acid poultry wash or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- Banned ingredients in other countries — Food Revolution Network
- EFSA food additives — EFSA
- FDA Food Additives — U.S. FDA
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.