Cashew
6 months and up
⚡ Quick answer
Cashew can be given from 6 months as smooth cashew butter or ground powder; whole cashews pose a choking risk until 4-5 years of age, and because it is a strong allergen it should be tried with care.
How to serve it by age?
Mix a very small amount of unsweetened, unsalted cashew butter thinly into yogurt, vegetable puree or porridge; do not give the thick butter on its own.
Sprinkle and stir ground cashew (powder) into fruit puree or yogurt; keep the consistency runny.
Spread smooth cashew butter thinly onto soft bread or a slice of fruit; whole cashews are not given until 4-5 years of age.
⚠️ Allergen information
Cashew is a significant tree nut allergen and can sometimes cause severe reactions; it can cross-react with pistachio. Give it for the first time in a very small amount, on its own, and watch closely for a few days for symptoms such as rash, vomiting, face-lip swelling and wheezing.
🫁 Choking risk and safe serving
Whole cashew is hard and slippery and can block the windpipe; do not give whole or piece cashews until 4-5 years of age. Mix plain cashew butter thinly into puree or yogurt, or grind cashew like a powder and add it to food.
📌 Watch out for these
- Cashew is a nut that can cause severe allergy; on the first try, start small and observe carefully.
- Use plain cashew instead of salted, sweetened or roasted snack cashew.
- If there is a family history of nut allergy, consult your doctor first.
Related guides
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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.