Celery
6 months and up
⚡ Quick answer
Celeriac (celery root) can be given from 6 months onward, thoroughly cooked and pureed; the raw stalk is firm and fibrous and, because of the choking risk, is unsuitable for young babies.
How to serve it by age?
Peel the celeriac and cook until thoroughly soft, then make a smooth puree; it is usually given mixed with vegetables such as carrot and potato.
Chop the thoroughly cooked celeriac into small soft pieces, or add it mashed into a soup/vegetable mix.
You can give small pieces from the family meal's cooked celery dish (an unsalted portion); try raw celery only very finely grated.
⚠️ Allergen information
Celery is among the allergens that require mandatory labeling in Europe and can cause an allergic reaction in some babies; if there is a family history of celery or pollen allergy, be more careful on the first trial and start on its own with a small amount.
🫁 Choking risk and safe serving
Because raw celery stalk is firm and fibrous, the choking risk is high; cook celeriac thoroughly and puree it, and if you are giving stalk celery, cook it thoroughly and chop it finely — never give it raw in stick form.
📌 Watch out for these
- Celery is an important allergen; give it on its own and in a small amount the first time, and watch for a reaction.
- Do not give raw celery stalk to young babies; it is firm and a choking risk.
- If there is a family history of pollen or celery allergy, consult your doctor.
Related guides
⚕️ 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.