When can babies eat Hemp Seeds (Hemp Hearts)?

From 6 months

Start with: Soft, tiny seeds that dissolve easily.

Hemp Seeds (Hemp Hearts)

Hemp hearts are the shelled centers of hemp seeds. They are a rare plant-based complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. They are exceptionally soft and easy for babies to chew and digest. Rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, zinc, and iron, they are one of the most efficient ways to boost the nutrient density of a small baby's meal.

How to serve Hemp Seeds (Hemp Hearts), by age

  1. 6mo

    From 6 months: Soft, tiny seeds that dissolve easily.

    Introduce by stirring 1/2 to 1 teaspoon into smooth purees like avocado, sweet potato, or yogurt. Because they are soft and do not expand like chia seeds, they can be mixed directly into food without pre-soaking. They add a mild, nutty flavor that is usually well-accepted by infants.

  2. 9mo

    From 9 months: Soft, slightly grainy texture.

    Use as a nutritional 'sprinkle' on finger foods. Roll slippery fruit slices (like banana or peach) in hemp seeds to make them easier for your baby to pick up. You can also mix them into warm oatmeal or use them to top a spread on toast.

  3. 12mo

    From 12 months: Soft, nutty seeds.

    Toddlers can consume 1-2 tablespoons daily. Add them to smoothies, mix into pancake batter, or sprinkle over pasta dishes. They are an excellent way to add high-quality protein and zinc to a toddler's diet, especially during 'picky eater' phases where they may refuse meat.

Choking risk & safe preparation

Low choking risk

Hemp hearts are very small and soft, making them a very low choking risk. However, as with any small seed, ensure they are mixed into a moist food to avoid the baby inhaling the dry grains.

Allergen information

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

Nutrition & benefits

A zinc powerhouse (9.9mg), which is essential for immune health and cell growth. Hemp seeds provide a perfect 3:1 balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids, which is considered the ideal ratio for long-term human health and brain insulation (myelin).

  • Brain Food
  • Immune Support

Per 100 g

Energy
553kcal
Protein
31.6g
Fat
48.8g
Fiber
4g
Iron
8mg
Vitamin C
0.5mg
See all nutrients (20)

Macronutrients

Energy
553 kcal
Protein
31.6 g
Carbohydrates
8.7 g
Fat
48.8 g

Key Minerals

Iron
8 mg
Calcium
70 mg
Zinc
9.9 mg
Sodium
5 mg
Potassium
1200 mg
Magnesium
700 mg
Phosphorus
1650 mg
Copper
1.6 mg
Manganese
7.6 mg

Vitamins

Vitamin A
1 mcg
Vitamin C
0.5 mg
Vitamin B6
0.6 mg
Vitamin E
0.8 mg
Folate
110 mcg
Thiamin (B1)
1.3 mg

Other

Fiber
4 g

Source: USDA FoodData Central

Pairs well with

Recipes with Hemp Seeds (Hemp Hearts)

Cottage Cheese & Blueberry Smash with Hemp Seeds

Cottage Cheese & Blueberry Smash with Hemp Seeds

A protein-rich, no-cook breakfast combining creamy cottage cheese with smashed blueberries and nutrient-dense hemp seeds. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium for growing babies, while hemp seeds add essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids plus iron. Quick to prepare and naturally delicious.

5 minFrom 6 mo
Creamy Egg Yolk Pasta for Toddlers

Creamy Egg Yolk Pasta for Toddlers

A silky, protein-rich sauce made from hard-boiled egg yolks and mild cheese that perfectly coats every piece of pasta. This is a wonderful way to introduce the richness of eggs in a familiar, comforting format for your little one.

20 minFrom 12 mo
Slow-Roasted Root Veggie Batons with Hemp Dust

Slow-Roasted Root Veggie Batons with Hemp Dust

Soft, oven-baked turnip and carrot strips sized perfectly for little hands to pick up and explore. Steaming before roasting ensures the interior remains tender, while ground hemp seeds add a mild nutty finish.

50 minFrom 6 mo
Green Power Smoothie Bowl with Hemp Seeds

Green Power Smoothie Bowl with Hemp Seeds

A vibrant, nutrient-packed bowl that's thick enough for spoon-feeding. Loaded with mango, spinach, and avocado for creaminess, and topped with hemp seeds for a protein and Omega-3 boost.

10 minFrom 12 mo
Green Power Smoothie (Spinach, Banana & Hemp)

Green Power Smoothie (Spinach, Banana & Hemp)

A creamy, vibrant green smoothie naturally sweetened with ripe banana and boosted with hemp seeds. Rich in iron, fiber, and healthy fats, it's a refreshing way to drink your greens.

5 minFrom 18 mo
Strawberry & Banana Hemp Mash for Baby

Strawberry & Banana Hemp Mash for Baby

A simple, fresh no-cook blend combining sweet bananas and ripe strawberries with nutrient-dense milled hemp seeds. Naturally sweet and rich in essential fatty acids, it is perfect for early spoon feeding or finger-food exploration at 6 months and beyond.

5 minFrom 6 mo

Frequently asked

Can hemp seeds make my baby fail a drug test or get high?

Absolutely not. Hemp seeds are from the Cannabis sativa plant, but they do not contain THC (the psychoactive compound). They are strictly a food product and are 100% safe for infants and toddlers.

Do I need to grind hemp seeds?

No. Unlike flaxseeds, hemp hearts are sold with their hard shells already removed. The soft 'heart' inside is easily digested by a baby's stomach without any grinding or soaking.

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