Calamansi

Calamansi can start when your baby is about 6 months old and ready for solids. It is very acidic, so it can cause a rash around the mouth and on the hands. It can also cause diaper rash or make it worse.

It comes from East and Southeast Asia. People believe it came from a natural cross between a kumquat and another citrus. The little round fruit turns golden yellow or orange once ripe and tastes sour and refreshing. It is used like lemon and lime. It adds a bright tartness to savory dishes, preserves, cold drinks and teas. The peel can be zested or dried and used as seasoning.

Calamansi is usually eaten in small amounts. Still, it provides fiber, water, potassium and vitamin C. These help digestion, hydration, skin, immunity and iron absorption.

Using it in meals

From 6 months, drip a little onto food or use the juice in sauces and marinades. After 12 months you can put halved fruit beside the dish.

You can freeze leftover juice in ice cube trays. Frozen cubes keep in a freezer bag for up to 6 months.

Calamansi juice as a drink

After 12 months, a small amount of calamansi juice can be a drink. It helps to wait until age 2 for regular juice and sweet drinks. They raise the risk of cavities and fill the belly, which can lower the appetite at meals. An occasional glass after the first birthday is usually fine.

Calamansi is low risk. Any food can still cause choking. Remove the seeds, prepare it for your baby's age and stay with your baby during meals.

Calamansi is not a common allergen. Still, sensitivity to citrus is reported often around the world. People with oral allergy syndrome, especially those allergic to grass and some tree pollens, may react to calamansi. The mouth may itch, tingle or burn for a short while, which rarely means real danger. Heating the juice may reduce the reaction.

The acid can cause a harmless rash around the mouth. It usually fades soon. The peel contains limonene, a recognized skin-contact allergen that may trigger allergic contact dermatitis in people who are sensitive.

If the juice stays on the skin and the skin meets the sun, phytophotodermatitis can develop. The skin darkens, itches, and sometimes blisters and hurts. Washing the skin after contact and using sun protection prevents it.

Offer a small amount for the first few meals. If there is no reaction, increase gradually.