🌾 Pasta

Grains, bread & pastaFrom 8 monthsSeason: Available year-round

Allergen note

Pasta is generally well-tolerated, but introduce it separately from egg- or wheat-based sauces to monitor for any reactions to these common allergens.

How to serve

For infants (6-12 months), serve 2-4 tbsp of well-cooked, soft pasta (like orzo or penne) cut into tiny pieces, mashed with a fork for easy gumming. For toddlers (1-3 years), offer a ¼ to ½ cup portion of bite-sized pasta that they can practice picking up themselves.

Preparation

Cook pasta until very soft, then finely chop or mash it to prevent choking, and avoid adding salt or sugar to the preparation.

Texture and choking risk

Always serve pasta soft, well-cooked, and cut into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking, and ensure your child is seated and supervised during meals.

Sources: cdc.gov · cdc.gov · healthychildren.org · healthychildren.org · nhs.uk · nhs.uk

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.