🥜 Pine nuts

Legumes, nuts & seedsAge not specifiedSeason: Pine nuts are harvested in late summer to early autumn, typically from September to October in the Northern Hemisphere. This seasonality applies to most major producing regions like the Mediterranean, China, and the American Southwest.

Allergen note

Pine nuts are a tree nut and a common allergen; introduce them in a tiny, well-mashed amount and watch closely for any reaction.

How to serve

For infants 6+ months, finely grind 1/4 teaspoon of pine nuts into a puree. For toddlers, lightly toast and sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon over yogurt or oatmeal.

Preparation

Always finely grind pine nuts into a smooth powder or butter to prevent choking, and consider lightly toasting them to enhance flavor before pureeing into a soft food like yogurt or oatmeal.

Texture and choking risk

Due to their small, hard size, whole pine nuts are a choking hazard for infants and toddlers; always finely grind or crush them into a paste or powder and serve under close supervision.

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.