🧂 Fresh nutmeg

Herbs, spices & condimentsAge not specifiedSeason: Available year-round. Nutmeg is the seed of a tropical evergreen tree, which produces fruit multiple times per year, with a peak harvest season typically occurring between April and September.

Allergen note

Nutmeg is not a common allergen and is generally well-tolerated; introduce a tiny amount mixed into food to watch for any rare individual reaction.

How to serve

For infants over 6 months, add a tiny pinch (less than 1/8 tsp) of freshly grated nutmeg to pureed sweet potato or applesauce.

Preparation

Always grate fresh nutmeg finely and cook it into purees or mashed foods to ensure it's safe and easy to digest, avoiding any raw or large pieces.

Texture and choking risk

Fresh nutmeg is a choking hazard due to its hard, powdery texture; always grate it finely into purees and supervise closely during meals.

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.