Can I Give Kiwi to My Baby? A Guide to Serving Kiwi Safely for BLW

Kiwi can be introduced to babies as soon as they are ready to start solids, typically around 6 months of age. It is a nutrient-dense fruit, packed with fiber and vitamin C, making it an excellent addition to your baby's diet.

Yes! Kiwi is high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, supporting digestion and immune health. Being rich in vitamin C helps with iron absorption which is very important for babies. Natural sweetness of kiwi makes it great for adding flavor to foods like oatmeal and yogurt. However, the acidity of kiwi may cause mild irritation in some babies, especially if they have sensitive skin or reflux.

As long as the fruit is soft and ripe, kiwi is generally safe for babies. The tiny seeds are soft and do not pose a choking risk. However, slippery textures can be challenging for younger babies to grasp.

Since ripe kiwis are naturally soft, they’re an ideal fruit for babies to handle. Here are some simple, safe ways to introduce kiwis to your baby at different stages:

For Babies 6 Months+

• Serve as Finger Food: You can serve peeled halves or quarters as a finger food for your baby to practice their grasp. If too slippery, make small zig-zag cuts to add texture and grip.
• Mashed or Pureed: You can also spoon feed mashed or pureed kiwis. Mixing it into yogurt or oatmeal or spreading on a toast are also a great options. This helps them get a taste of the fruit without overwhelming them.

For Babies 8-9 Months+

• Small Bite-sized Pieces for Pincer Grasp Practice: Once your baby is working on their pincer grasp, you can cut the peeled kiwi into small cubes. This is a great way to let them practice picking up smaller pieces and feeding themselves. If the pieces are too slippery and frustrating, continue offering wedges.

For Toddlers

• Encourage Fork Practice: Around 18 months toddlers develop the ability to spear or stab with a fork. Soft and ripe kiwi is ideal for practicing spearing and self-feeding. Start introducing a fork with the small bite-sized pieces. Expect this skill to develop gradually. First trials maybe your toddler just experimenting with spearing and still grabbing with their hands.

While kiwi is not a top allergen, allergic reactions are becoming more common. Some babies may experience oral allergy symptoms like itching or tingling in the mouth due to cross-reactivity with pollen or latex. If your baby has known allergies, introduce kiwi cautiously. Signs of kiwi sensitivity include: redness or rash around the mouth, Tingling or itching sensation.

The internet often suggests serving kiwi with the skin on for better grip, but this depends on personal preference. Some babies (and adults) dislike the fuzzy texture, while others tolerate it well. If you choose to offer it with the skin, ensure it's thoroughly washed.