Lime

Lime can be offered when baby is ready to start solids, usually around 6 months. Babies eat only tiny amounts. The fruit is very acidic.

Lime belongs to the citrus family. It is thought to come from Southeast Asia. Most limes are bright green. Key lime, makrut lime and a seedless type from Iran are well-known kinds.

It provides fiber, fluid, and potassium along with vitamins C and B6. The peel holds plant compounds such as flavonoids.

General tips

Lime mostly works as a seasoning. Squeeze a little juice over the food. You can grate the peel on top as well.

Always remove the seeds. If baby wants to taste the fruit alone, half a lime is enough.

Limeade

Small sips of limeade are fine after 12 months. It is better to wait until age 2 to serve sugary drinks often. Frequent sweet drinks raise the risk of cavities. They can also fill the belly and lower appetite for meals.

Lime is low risk. Any food can cause choking in theory. Take out the seeds and serve it in a form that fits baby's age. Sit with baby during meals, within arm's reach.

Lime is not counted as a common food allergen. Some people are still sensitive to citrus. Those with pollen food allergy syndrome may react. The sign is usually short itching or burning in the mouth. A dangerous reaction is not expected.

The limonene in the peel can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive people. If the juice stays on skin and the skin meets sun, it can blister and darken. This is called phytophotodermatitis. Washing the skin after contact and using sun protection prevents it.

Start with a small amount for the first servings. If there is no reaction, raise the amount slowly.