How to serve tomato by age
6–8 months
Ripe large tomato in soft wedges, skin peeled if tough. Cherry tomatoes: quarter lengthwise and flatten each piece.
9–11 months
Cherry tomatoes quartered lengthwise; large tomatoes chopped into small soft pieces, skins peeled if chewy.
12–24 months
Quarter cherry tomatoes lengthwise. To be extra safe, we suggest this until at least age 4. Diced tomato and low-salt sauces are fine.
Needs special prep: high
choking risk in its raw or whole form
Quarter cherry tomatoes lengthwise and flatten the pieces for young babies; never serve them whole or halved across.
Whole or halved cherry tomatoes are round and slippery, the right size to block an airway.
Nutrition
- Contains vitamin C and potassium.
- Contains lycopene, the red pigment in tomatoes.
Preparation tips
- Acidic juice can leave a little redness around the mouth; it usually fades quickly. Ask your pediatrician if you're unsure.
- Serving it with an iron-rich food like lentils or beef is a nice pairing: vitamin C improves iron absorption.
Sources
- CDC · Infant and Toddler Nutrition: Choking Hazards
- American Academy of Pediatrics · HealthyChildren.org: Starting Solid Foods
- NHS Best Start in Life · Weaning
This is general information, not medical advice. Read our disclaimer and methodology.
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