
Not recommended at 6–18 months (salt). Can be served from 18 months, within limits: see each age for how much. Choking risk is high (4/5): size and texture matter at every age. Low allergen risk.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Not recommended
Babies should not have salty foods such as bacon, ham, and processed meats (NHS). Small amounts may be introduced from 12 months.
Not recommended
Babies should not have salty foods such as bacon, ham, and processed meats; small amounts may be introduced from 12 months (NHS).
Limit
Small amounts now and then; children 1 to 3 should have no more than 2 g of salt a day (NHS).
Children aged 1 to 3 should have no more than 2 g of salt a day, so processed meats like bacon should only be served occasionally in small amounts (NHS).
At 18 months and older, bacon can be included in the diet occasionally and only as part of a balanced meal. Continue to cook it so it is soft (not crispy) and cut into small, manageable pieces (no larger than 1 cm/0.4 in). With increasing chewing skills, you may offer thin strips or small squares, always supervising closely. Moderation is key due to salt content. Avoid offering bacon as a stand-alone food; instead, use it as a flavor enhancement among other nutritious, low-sodium foods such as whole grains and vegetables.
At 18 months and up, bacon should be served only occasionally in small amounts due to its high sodium content. Crumbled into dishes with vegetables, legumes, or whole grains, it can add flavor while keeping the overall meal low in salt. Children aged 1 to 3 should have no more than 2 g of salt a day.
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Every child develops chewing and swallowing skills at their own pace. The preparation methods shown are general guidelines; you must always evaluate your individual child's ability before serving. By offering this food, you agree to the following:
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Age and preparation guidance informed by the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the World Health Organization's complementary feeding guidelines, ESPGHAN's (European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition) position paper on complementary feeding, and EFSA's (European Food Safety Authority) scientific opinion on the introduction of complementary feeding. This content is independently created by Dalo Baby for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement by or affiliation with any of these organizations.
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