Sunflower seed

Sunflower seeds can be given from 6 months if they are finely ground or made into a smooth butter. Loosen the butter with yogurt, water, formula, or breast milk. Whole seeds are not given to babies.

The sunflower is a plant native to the Americas. Today the seeds are eaten dried, raw or roasted. They are milled into flour, pressed for oil or ground into butter.

Nutrition

They carry plenty of protein, fat and fiber. They give iron, selenium and zinc. They also hold vitamin B6, vitamin E and folate. These nutrients help with growth, the making of red blood cells, hormones, the sense of taste, and defense against infection.

Every baby develops at their own pace. These tips are general guidance.

At 6 months, grind hulled seeds until no large pieces remain. Scatter the powder over warm porridge, yogurt, rice, quinoa, or squash. Roll slippery fruit slices in the powder so your baby can hold them. Thin the butter with water, milk or applesauce. Offer water in an open cup alongside. Choose honey-free butter.

After 12 months you can serve smooth butter without thinning. Spread it thinly or mix it in well. Do not serve a spoonful on its own.

After 24 months, if your child chews and swallows well and can sit and follow directions, hulled whole seeds can be tried. Start one at a time. Discard the shell, place the seed between your own back teeth and chew with big, slow motions so they can watch.

Sunflower seeds are small, hard and smooth, which raises the choking risk. Seed butter can turn sticky in the mouth and is hard to manage. So serve them as a ground powder or thinned butter. Stay within arm's reach during meals and set up a safe space.

Allergy to sunflower seeds is uncommon, yet cases exist. It is not counted as a common allergen.

Start with a small amount the first time. If there is no reaction, increase the amount slowly over later meals.