Dates (Fresh/Dried)
6 months and up
⚡ Quick answer
Dates can be given from 6 months onward, pitted and mashed; because they are very sweet and sticky, they are served in small amounts and mashed to prevent choking.
How to serve it by age?
Soften the pitted date in hot water and mash it; use it as a natural sweetener by mixing a small amount into oat porridge or yogurt.
Add the softened date, mashed, into purees; very small soft pieces can also be tried, but because it is sticky, supervision is essential.
Soft dates broken into small pieces can be given as finger food; keep the amount limited because they are very sugary.
🫁 Choking risk and safe serving
Dried dates are sticky and dense in consistency; if given whole or in large pieces they can stick in the throat. Always remove the pit, soften them in warm water and mash into a puree, or break them into very small pieces.
📌 Watch out for these
- Because of its sticky consistency it poses a choking risk; give it mashed or in very small pieces.
- Its natural sugar is very concentrated; give it in small amounts for dental health and clean the mouth afterward.
- Always remove the pit.
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⚕️ This page summarizes general pediatric recommendations; it is not medical advice. For babies with a history of allergies and whenever you are unsure, consult your pediatrician.