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🥜 Sunflower seeds

Legumes, nuts & seedsAge not specifiedSeason: Sunflower seeds are harvested in late summer to early autumn globally, with peak availability from August to October. However, due to global cultivation and storage, they are typically available year-round in markets.

Allergen note

While not a top allergen, introduce sunflower seed butter thinned with water or yogurt to reduce choking risk and monitor for any reaction.

How to serve

For toddlers over 12 months, finely grind a teaspoon of sunflower seeds into a smooth butter or powder and mix it into yogurt or oatmeal to avoid a choking hazard.

Preparation

Always grind sunflower seeds into a fine powder or smooth butter to prevent choking, then mix into purees or yogurt; never serve whole or chopped due to the high choking risk.

Texture and choking risk

Sunflower seeds are a choking risk for infants and toddlers; never serve them whole. For older toddlers, only offer a thin layer of smooth seed butter on toast and always supervise closely.

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.