Bone Broth for Babies
Can be served at 6–18 months when prepared as described below. Fine to serve from 18 months, prepared as described below. Watch for: salt. Low choking and allergen risk.
Find recipes with Bone Broth in Dalo SolidsLast reviewed: October 2026
Safety Information
Always read the safety guidance before servingHow to Serve Bone Broth to a 6–9 Months Old
Milestones for 6–9 monthsPrepare with care
Only if prepared without added salt
The NHS advises against adding salt to baby food or cooking water and avoiding stock cubes or gravy, as infants' kidneys cannot process excess salt.
Serving Instructions
Offer a few teaspoons (15–30 ml or 0.5–1 fl oz) of bone broth at a time alongside other foods, as part of a balanced meal that includes a source of iron (such as pureed beef or lentils), a vitamin C-rich vegetable (such as sweet potato or broccoli), and a healthy fat (like avocado or olive oil). Always ensure the broth is homemade without added salt or bought completely unsalted, as babies' kidneys cannot process excess salt. Bone broth is not a significant source of protein or iron, but it provides hydration and flavor. Never replace formula or breast milk with broth at this age.
How to Serve Bone Broth to a 9–18 Months Old
Milestones for 9–12 monthsPrepare with care
Only if prepared without added salt
The NHS recommends avoiding added salt and salty stocks before 12 months to protect developing kidneys; after 12 months, continue to keep salt intake low.
Serving Instructions
At this age, you may offer 30–60 ml (1–2 fl oz) of bone broth at a meal, served with finely minced, soft-cooked vegetables and/or meats. Ensure the broth is prepared without added salt or salty stock cubes for babies under 12 months; after 12 months, continue to keep added salt low. Include a source of iron, vitamin C, and healthy fats at each meal—bone broth pairs well with these. Prioritize solids over sips, and remember, breast milk or formula remains the main drink for babies under 12 months. Broth is best as a small side or for flavor/texture exploration.
How to Serve Bone Broth to a 18+ Months Old
Milestones for 18–24 monthsFine to serve
Suitable at this age with the usual preparation described below.
Serving Instructions
Serve bone broth as a warm drink (60–120 ml or 2–4 fl oz) in a cup alongside meals, or use as a base for soups with soft noodles, rice, or small pieces of soft vegetables and meat. Continue to offer a source of iron, vitamin C, and healthy fats in each meal. Broth is a flavorful way to hydrate and support appetite but should not displace main foods or milk/dairy sources. Encourage self-feeding and sipping from a cup.
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Important Safety Disclaimer
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:
- Choking & Preparation: All foods can pose a choking hazard. You are strictly responsible for modifying food sizes and textures to match your child's skills. Always physically inspect this food for hidden hazards (e.g., bones, pits, seeds, splinters, or tough skins) before serving.
- Food Handling: Ensure all ingredients are properly washed, stored, and cooked to safe internal temperatures to prevent foodborne illness. Never serve raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs to an infant.
- Allergens: Introduce any new food one at a time. Observe your child closely for signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing) and seek emergency medical care immediately if symptoms occur.
- Strict Supervision: 100% active, arm's-length adult supervision is required at all times while your child is eating or interacting with food.
- Talk to your pediatrician: If your baby has known allergies, was born prematurely, or has feeding difficulties, check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods.
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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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