When can babies eat Olive Oil?
From 6 months
Start with: Smooth liquid.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is a vital source of healthy monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, which is also found in breast milk. It is essential for brain development, nerve function, and skin health. It also acts as a natural, gentle lubricant for the digestive system, helping to prevent and treat infant constipation.
How to serve Olive Oil, by age
- 6mo
From 6 months: Smooth liquid.
Introduce by drizzling 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of raw EVOO over purees just before serving. Do not cook the oil at high heat for infants; adding it raw preserves the delicate antioxidants and vitamins. It makes purees smoother and easier to swallow.
- 9mo
From 9 months: Liquid oil.
Use as a dip for soft bread strips or drizzle over steamed vegetables and pasta. Olive oil is excellent for adding 'healthy calories' to a baby's meal, ensuring they get enough energy for their rapid physical growth.
- 12mo
From 12 months: Liquid oil.
Toddlers can consume 1-2 tablespoons daily spread across meals. Use it as the primary fat for roasting vegetables or making homemade pesto. It remains the healthiest fat choice for long-term heart and brain health.
Choking risk & safe preparation
Low choking risk
Olive oil is a liquid and poses no choking risk. In fact, it can reduce choking risks by making dry or sticky foods (like meat or thick purees) more slippery and easier to swallow.
Allergen information
Not a common childhood allergen. Reactions are possible with any food, so introduce it on its own first.
Nutrition & benefits
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is exceptionally high in Vitamin E (14.4mg) and Vitamin K (60.2mcg). Its high concentration of polyphenols (antioxidants) protects the baby's cells from oxidative stress. Its fat profile is remarkably similar to breast milk, making it the most natural fat to introduce during weaning.
- Brain Food
- Digestion-friendly
Per 100 g
- Energy
- 884kcal
- Protein
- 0g
- Fat
- 100g
- Fiber
- 0g
- Iron
- 0.6mg
- Vitamin C
- 0mg
See all nutrients (25)
Macronutrients
- Energy
- 884 kcal
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 0 g
- Fat
- 100 g
Key Minerals
- Iron
- 0.6 mg
- Calcium
- 1 mg
- Zinc
- 0 mg
- Sodium
- 2 mg
- Potassium
- 1 mg
- Magnesium
- 0 mg
- Phosphorus
- 0 mg
- Selenium
- 0 mcg
- Copper
- 0 mg
- Manganese
- 0 mg
Vitamins
- Vitamin A
- 0 mcg
- Vitamin C
- 0 mg
- Vitamin D
- 0 mcg
- Vitamin B6
- 0 mg
- Vitamin B12
- 0 mcg
- Vitamin E
- 14.3 mg
- Vitamin K
- 60.2 mcg
- Folate
- 0 mcg
- Thiamin (B1)
- 0 mg
- Choline
- 0.3 mg
Other
- Fiber
- 0 g
Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pairs well with
Recipes with Olive Oil
Apple & Pumpkin Seed Oat Bars
These chewy, naturally sweet bars are a fantastic way to introduce more iron into your toddler's diet. Using homemade apple sauce and fiber-rich oats, they provide a satisfying texture for little ones who are confidently chewing. They are perfect for on-the-go snacking or a quick breakfast.
Silky Asparagus & Red Lentil Mash with BLW Spear
This vibrant combination merges tender red lentils, creamy potato, and nutrient-dense asparagus. Rich in plant-based iron and gentle on little tummies, it offers both a smooth puree for spoon feeding and a soft spear for baby-led weaning exploration.
Avocado & Egg Toast
A balanced, nutrient-dense meal perfect for busy mornings. Creamy mashed avocado and hard-boiled egg on soft whole-wheat toast provide the perfect mix of healthy fats, protein, and fiber for growing toddlers.
Roasted Pepper and Eggplant Dip with Soft Veggie Sticks
A delicious Balkan-inspired vegetable dip made from naturally sweet roasted red peppers, garlic, and eggplant. Served with soft steamed carrot and zucchini sticks, this colorful dish is ideal for nine-month-olds practicing dipping and self-feeding.
Gently Simmered Sarma Purée for Baby
Inspired by traditional Balkan sarma, this comforting bowl combines tender beef, shredded cabbage, tomato, and soft brown rice. Specially blended into a smooth purée, it provides a gentle, iron-rich dish perfect for babies starting solids.
Soft Baked Chicken Thighs with Mediterranean Veg
Succulent, easy-to-chew chicken thighs roasted alongside colorful zucchini and peppers. A nutrient-dense, one-pan meal that provides essential iron and healthy fats for your growing toddler.
Frequently asked
Is 'Light' olive oil better for babies because it is milder?
No. 'Light' olive oil is highly refined and has lost most of its antioxidants and vitamins. Always choose 'Extra Virgin' for your baby to ensure they receive the maximum nutritional benefits.
Can I use olive oil to treat my baby's constipation?
Yes! Adding a teaspoon of raw olive oil to a baby's meal can help soften stools and make them easier to pass. It is a safe and natural alternative to laxatives for mild constipation.
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