It is the fish with the listeria, at least here in the u.s.! The raw fish (not previously frozen), especially shellfish. We tell our pregnant patients that cooked or veggie sushi is safe.
From ACOG (sorry about all the fish/meat mentions)
http://m.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Nutrition-During-Pregnancy?IsMobileSet=true
"How can food poisoning affect my pregnancy?
Food poisoning in a pregnant woman can cause serious problems for both her and her baby. Vomiting and diarrhea can cause your body to lose too much water and can disrupt your body's chemical balance. To prevent food poisoning, follow these general guidelines:
Wash food. Rinse all raw produce thoroughly under running tap water before eating, cutting, or cooking.
Keep your kitchen clean. Wash your hands, knives, countertops, and cutting boards after handling and preparing uncooked foods.
Avoid all raw and undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat.
Do not eat sushi made with raw fish (cooked sushi is safe). Food such as beef, pork, or poultry should be cooked to a safe internal temperature.
What is listeriosis and how can it affect my pregnancy?
Listeriosis is a type of food-borne illness caused by bacteria. Pregnant women are 13 times more likely to get listeriosis than the general population. Listeriosis can cause mild, flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and diarrhea, but it also may not cause any symptoms. Listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, and premature delivery. Antibiotics can be given to treat the infection and to protect your unborn baby. To help prevent listeriosis, avoid eating the following foods during pregnancy:
Unpasteurized milk and foods made with unpasteurized milk
Hot dogs, luncheon meats, and cold cuts unless they are heated until steaming hot just before serving
Refrigerated pate and meat spreads
Refrigerated smoked seafood
Raw and undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat"
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