Raspberry

When can babies have raspberries?

Raspberries can be offered once baby is ready for solids, from about 6 months. Because they are acidic, the juice can redden skin it touches and can start or worsen diaper rash. This is harmless but good to know.

Nutrition and origin

Raspberries supply carbohydrates, fiber and water. You also get folate, magnesium, potassium and zinc, plus vitamin K and vitamins B6, C and E. Wild plants grow across Asia, Europe and North America.

Preparation basics

For young babies, mash the berries and stir them into yogurt or porridge. Small flattened pieces are hard to pick up at this age, so wait until baby grabs small items comfortably. From 9 months, gently press soft, ripe berries before serving. From 12 months, ripe and soft berries can be served whole.

Choking risk

Raspberries that are ripe rarely cause choking. Hard, tiny or underripe berries may pose a risk. Choose big, ripe, soft ones, prepare them for your child's age and stay close during meals.

Allergen status

Raspberry is not a common allergen. Allergy has been reported but is rare. Acidic fruit often leaves a harmless rash around the mouth and on the diaper area. A thin layer of barrier cream on the face and bottom before the meal can reduce it.

People with pollen food allergy syndrome, especially those sensitive to some tree pollens, may react to raspberries. Children sensitive to other plants of the rose family, for instance blackberries, strawberries, apricots, almonds or plums, can react in the same way. The usual sign is brief itching or burning in the mouth. Cooking can reduce the reaction.