Beet for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve beet to your baby, by age.

High in Vitamin CFiber-RichIron-RichGut-FriendlyNatural Nitrates

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

Low (2/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Beet to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies aged 6-9 months, beets should be cooked until very soft—steaming or roasting works well. To reduce choking risk and make the texture manageable, mash or puree the cooked beets with a bit of breast milk, formula, or water. You can also grate the cooked beet very finely or offer it as a thick, smearable mash that baby can self-feed by hand or by pre-loading a spoon. Avoid offering any raw or firm pieces at this stage. Be mindful that beets can stain hands and clothing, so prepare accordingly and clean up promptly.

Serving Instructions

Offer 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of cooked, mashed or pureed beet as part of a balanced meal, ideally combined with iron-rich foods like lentils or meat and a source of healthy fat such as avocado or olive oil. Beets are naturally sweet and can help introduce new flavors to your baby. Monitor for any reactions, though beets are rarely allergenic. The color of urine or stool may change after eating beets—this is harmless.

How to Serve Beet to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

For 9-18 months, beets should still be cooked until soft. At this stage, you can try offering cooked beet pieces cut into small, easy-to-pick-up sticks (about the size of your pinky finger) or small bite-sized cubes. Alternatively, continue with a mashed or shredded texture if baby is still working on the pincer grasp. Soft beet sticks are excellent for practicing self-feeding and chewing. Always supervise closely and avoid raw or crunchy textures, which can pose a choking risk. Offer alongside a variety of foods: beets pair well with soft cheese or yogurt and other vitamin C-rich foods to help with iron absorption.

Serving Instructions

Offer 2-4 tablespoons (30-60 ml) of soft, cooked beet as sticks, cubes, or mashed, as part of a varied meal featuring protein (beans, egg, chicken), soft cooked vegetables, and whole grains. Vitamin C-rich foods (like orange slices or kiwi) can help boost iron absorption from beets. Encourage self-feeding with appropriate beet shapes for skill development. Always supervise and be mindful of staining.

How to Serve Beet to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

For children 18 months and older, offer cooked beets in slices, quartered rounds, or bite-sized pieces. Continue to avoid raw or hard textures, as they can still pose a choking hazard for younger toddlers. Let your child practice using utensils or continue with finger foods. Beets are fun for dipping into spreads like hummus or soft cheese, or adding to salads with other soft vegetables. Supervise as your child eats, and encourage chewing thoroughly. If your child is ready, you can gradually introduce small amounts of finely grated raw beet mixed into other soft foods, but monitor closely.

Serving Instructions

Offer 1/4 cup (60 ml) of cooked beet in bite-sized pieces, slices, or as part of a mixed dish with grains, cheese, or leafy greens. At this age, your toddler can enjoy beets with dips or in salads, but continue to avoid raw, crunchy pieces. Aim for variety in presentation to encourage interest. Monitor for any chewing difficulties and ensure beets are soft. Serve with vitamin C-rich foods (such as oranges or strawberries) for enhanced iron absorption.