Plum

Plum can be offered at around 6 months, as long as it is very ripe and soft or cooked until soft. Dried plum (prune) works at the same age once softened.

The plum grows wild across North America, Europe and Asia. There are thousands of varieties. Some are very sweet, some sour and some astringent.

Nutrition

Plum provides carbohydrates, fiber and fluid. It also contains vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium. These support energy, digestion and fluid balance.

Plum is one of the fruits that can help babies who struggle with constipation.

Always serve plum without the pit. Gentle pressure between thumb and forefinger should be enough to mash the fruit. The skin helps baby grip the slippery flesh. Peel it if the skin worries you.

Plum is very slippery. Small pieces can be hard for baby to pick up. Thin slices or a pitted half are easier.

If baby bites off a large piece, stay calm and keep your finger out of their mouth. Kneel in front of baby and encourage them to look down. Gravity helps the piece come out.

Plum carries a choking risk. An underripe plum is both slippery and firm, and that combination raises the risk. The pit is also a serious blockage hazard.

Stay beside baby during meals, within arm's reach.

Plum is not a common allergen. Reports of severe allergic reactions to plum exist, however. People with a history of strong reactions to cherry, peach or nectarine may carry a higher risk. Latex allergy can also raise the risk.

Plum can also trigger a reaction in people allergic to birch pollen. People with oral allergy syndrome to other foods from the rose (stone fruit) family are affected in the same way. This syndrome brings brief itching, tingling or a burning feeling in the mouth. A dangerous reaction is unlikely. Cooking and peeling the fruit can reduce the reaction.

Begin with a tiny portion at the first meals. If baby does fine, increase it step by step.