When can babies eat Brussels Sprouts?

From 6 months

Start with: Silky, smooth puree.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are miniature members of the cabbage family, packed with fiber, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C. They contain glucosinolates, which support the body's natural detoxification and immune systems. While they can have a strong flavor, roasting them brings out a natural sweetness that babies often enjoy.

How to serve Brussels Sprouts, by age

  1. 6mo

    From 6 months: Silky, smooth puree.

    Brussels Sprouts prepared for babies from 6 months

    Serve as a smooth puree. Steam until very soft and blend with a little breast milk or olive oil. To balance the strong flavor, consider blending them with a sweeter vegetable like sweet potato or apple. Do not serve whole sprouts.

  2. 9mo

    From 9 months: Soft-cooked shreds or small quarters.

    Brussels Sprouts prepared for babies from 9 months

    Offer finely shredded or quartered, well-cooked sprouts. Roasting the sprouts halved or quartered makes them tender and sweet. Ensure the leaves are soft and not crispy or burnt, as dry leaves can cause gagging. At this stage, they are great for practicing the pincer grasp.

  3. 12mo

    From 12 months: Halved, tender roasted sprouts.

    Brussels Sprouts prepared for babies from 12 months

    Toddlers can enjoy halved sprouts. You can roast them with a drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze to further reduce any bitterness. Continue to avoid serving them whole until the child is older and has advanced chewing skills.

Choking risk & safe preparation

High choking risk

Whole Brussels sprouts are a major choking hazard because of their size, shape, and firm texture. Always quarter or shred them. Ensure they are cooked until buttery soft so they can be easily mashed between the gums.

Allergen information

Not a common childhood allergen. Reactions are possible with any food, so introduce it on its own first.

Nutrition & benefits

Contains an incredible amount of Vitamin K (177mcg), which is nearly double the daily requirement. They are also high in fiber (3.8g) and Vitamin C (85mg), supporting both bone health and immunity.

  • Digestion-friendly

Per 100 g

Energy
43kcal
Protein
3.4g
Fat
0.3g
Fiber
3.8g
Iron
1.4mg
Vitamin C
85mg
See all nutrients (25)

Macronutrients

Energy
43 kcal
Protein
3.4 g
Carbohydrates
8.9 g
Fat
0.3 g

Key Minerals

Iron
1.4 mg
Calcium
42 mg
Zinc
0.4 mg
Sodium
25 mg
Potassium
389 mg
Magnesium
23 mg
Phosphorus
69 mg
Selenium
1.6 mcg
Copper
< 0.1 mg
Manganese
0.3 mg

Vitamins

Vitamin A
38 mcg
Vitamin C
85 mg
Vitamin D
0 mcg
Vitamin B6
0.2 mg
Vitamin B12
0 mcg
Vitamin E
0.9 mg
Vitamin K
177 mcg
Folate
61 mcg
Thiamin (B1)
0.1 mg
Choline
19.1 mg

Other

Fiber
3.8 g

Source: USDA FoodData Central

Pairs well with

Frequently asked

My baby refuses Brussels sprouts. What can I do?

This is common due to their slightly bitter taste. Try roasting them instead of steaming to caramelize the sugars. You can also mix them with apple puree or sweet potato to mask the bitterness during the first few attempts.

Can Brussels sprouts cause gas?

Yes, like broccoli and cabbage, they contain complex sugars that can cause gas. Introduce them in small amounts and ensure they are very well cooked to help the baby's digestive system process them more easily.

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