Can a 9-month-old baby eat pasta?

A 9-month-old baby can safely eat pasta. At this stage, babies are usually ready to move beyond purees toward soft finger foods or mashed textures.

How to prepare:

• Cook the pasta until very soft — 2-3 minutes longer than package directions, until almost falling apart.
• Cut into small, bite-sized pieces (if using whole wheat pasta, cut each piece in half too).
• Cook in unsalted or very lightly salted water — added salt isn't recommended for babies.
• You can add plain olive oil, a small amount of yogurt, or grated cheese (pasteurized, low-salt) as a sauce.

What kind of pasta:

Whole grain, fiber-rich, or legume-based pastas (lentil, chickpea) are more nutritious. Plain white pasta is fine too, but lower in fiber and iron.

Important note:

Always supervise your baby during eating. Watch for choking risks, sit her upright, and start with very small pieces. If you notice signs of allergic reaction (rash, lip swelling, difficulty breathing), contact your doctor immediately.