Allergen note
Strawberries are not a common allergen, though their juice often leaves a red rash around the mouth that fades quickly. Check the label for added sugar or yogurt coatings (milk); hives, swelling or vomiting need prompt medical advice.
How to serve
From around 6 months, crush a few pieces into a fine powder and stir it into yogurt, porridge or mashed banana, or rehydrate and mash them. From about 12 months, offer a few small pieces at a time that soften quickly in the mouth.
Preparation
Look for packs that contain only strawberries. Blitz them in a blender or crush them in a sealed bag to make a powder, or soak pieces in a little warm water for a few minutes until soft; reseal the pack so they stay crisp.
Texture and choking risk
Dry, crunchy pieces can clump together and turn gummy in the mouth, which makes them harder for young babies to manage. Powder or rehydrate them before 12 months, give toddlers only a few small pieces at a time, and always supervise.
Starting ages are typical guidance for healthy, full-term babies who show signs of readiness. Your paediatrician may advise differently, especially where there is a family history of allergy.
Track first tastes and reactions
Log when your child first tries freeze-dried strawberries, note any reaction and see it in the allergen tracker.
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