Food Safety

Baby Food Safety: Choking Hazards, Allergens and Foods to Avoid

Keep your baby safe with our complete food safety guides. See which foods to avoid under 12 months, high choking risk foods, and how to safely introduce the Top 9 allergens.

3 free guidesUpdated 2026AAP & CDC reviewed

12 monthsHoney safe after

12 monthsWhole cow's milk as drink after

Around 4–6 monthsIntroduce peanuts

Age 4 yearsGrapes: cut into quarters until

About This Section

Food safety is the most important aspect of feeding your baby. From avoiding choking hazards to introducing allergens carefully, from knowing which foods are banned under 12 months to recognizing the signs of a food reaction, this section covers everything you need to keep mealtimes safe. All content is reviewed against AAP, FARE, and CDC safety guidance.

Choking is the Number One Food Safety Risk

Choking is a leading cause of injury in children under 4. Babies cannot effectively chew until their molar teeth emerge (around 12–18 months), so they rely on gumming food. Texture and size of food is critically important for the first two years.

Allergen Introduction Has Changed

Guidelines from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases now recommend introducing peanuts and other allergens early, around 4–6 months, rather than delaying them. Early introduction significantly reduces allergy risk.

Some Foods Are Banned Under 12 Months

Honey (risk of infant botulism), whole cow's milk as a main drink, added salt and sugar, raw honey, and foods that are choking hazards in their natural form should all be avoided before 12 months.

Pro Tips

Always supervise your baby during every meal, never leave them alone with food.
Learn infant CPR and choking first aid before starting solids.
Introduce one new allergen at a time, in the morning, to monitor reactions.
Cut round foods (grapes, blueberries) in quarters to eliminate the choking shape.
Keep a log of each new food introduced and any reactions you notice.

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Small portions of common allergen foods including egg, peanut butter, and yogurt prepared for a baby's first tastes

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Foods to Avoid for Babies Under 12 Months: Complete ListSome foods are dangerous for babies under 12 months. See our complete list of foods to avoid (honey, whole nuts, raw vegetables, and more) with the reasons why and safe alternatives.Read guide →

Browse by Age Group

Find guides specific to your baby's current developmental stage.

6 Months

Smooth purees only. Begin allergen introduction one at a time.

7–9 Months

Soft lumps and mashes. Continue allergen introduction.

10–12 Months

Soft finger foods cut into safe sizes. Avoid choking hazards.

All Food Safety Guides

3 free guides, reviewed against AAP and CDC guidelines, updated 2026.

Expert Guidelines We Follow

All content in this section is reviewed against these authoritative sources.

Top 9 Allergens

The FDA recognizes 9 major food allergens: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and sesame. Each should be introduced individually with a 3–5 day wait before introducing the next.

Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Mild reactions include hives, redness around the mouth, vomiting, or diarrhea. Severe reactions (anaphylaxis) cause throat swelling and breathing difficulty, call emergency services immediately.

High-Risk Choking Foods

Whole grapes, whole cherry tomatoes, hard raw vegetables, whole nuts and seeds, large chunks of meat, popcorn, marshmallows, and peanut butter served in large globs are all high choking risks.

AAP and CDC Guidelines

All content reviewed against American Academy of Pediatrics and CDC infant-feeding recommendations.

Updated 2026

We review and update guides whenever infant feeding recommendations change so you always get current advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to common questions about food safety.

What foods should I never give my baby under 12 months?

Honey, whole cow's milk as a main drink, added salt and sugar, raw or undercooked eggs, unpasteurized cheese, whole nuts and seeds, whole grapes and cherry tomatoes, large chunks of any food, and caffeinated drinks.

How do I introduce peanuts to my baby?

For babies without eczema or egg allergy, introduce thinned peanut butter (mix with water, breast milk, or formula) around 4–6 months. If your baby has severe eczema or egg allergy, consult your pediatrician or allergist first.

What should I do if my baby chokes?

If your baby is coughing, stay calm and let them cough. Learn infant first aid (back blows and chest thrusts) before starting solids. Call emergency services if the airway is blocked.

Is gagging normal when starting solids?

Yes, gagging is a completely normal protective reflex that helps babies move food safely. The gag reflex is much further forward in babies than adults. Most gagging resolves as babies develop oral motor skills.

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