Broad beans (Fava beans) for Babies
Can be served at every age in a safe size and texture, as described below. Choking risk is high (4/5). Low allergen risk.
Find recipes with Broad beans (Fava beans) in Dalo SolidsLast reviewed: October 2026
Safety Information
Always read the safety guidance before servingHow to Serve Broad beans (Fava beans) to a 6–9 Months Old
Milestones for 6–9 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly cooked, peeled, and mashed or pureed until smooth.
The CDC identifies whole beans as a potential choking hazard for young children. Broad beans must be thoroughly cooked, peeled, and mashed or pureed until smooth.
Serving Instructions
Serve broad beans mashed or pureed and ensure they are completely soft. A typical portion is 1-2 tablespoons (15-30g or 0.5-1oz), ideally paired with iron-rich foods (like beef, lentils, or tofu) and a source of vitamin C (such as sweet bell pepper or orange) at meal time. This boosts iron absorption. Introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for allergic reactions and always ensure foods are mashed to avoid choking hazards at this early stage.
How to Serve Broad beans (Fava beans) to a 9–18 Months Old
Milestones for 9–12 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly cooked, peeled, and flattened, halved, or mashed.
The CDC lists whole beans as a potential choking hazard for young children. Broad beans should be thoroughly cooked, peeled, and mashed or flattened rather than served whole.
Serving Instructions
Broad beans can be served as a chunky mash or split/quartered pieces at this stage, as long as they are soft and the outer skin is removed. Offer 2-4 tablespoons (30-60g or 1-2oz) per meal, together with whole grains, meats, or other protein sources and vitamin C-rich produce. Encourage self-feeding where appropriate but keep watch for any signs of choking, and always supervise your child while eating.
How to Serve Broad beans (Fava beans) to a 18+ Months Old
Milestones for 18–24 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly cooked, peeled, and flattened, chopped, or mashed.
The CDC advises avoiding whole beans for young children due to choking risk. Broad beans should remain thoroughly cooked, peeled, and flattened, chopped, or mashed.
Serving Instructions
At this stage, most children can handle soft, peeled broad beans that are flattened, chopped, or lightly mashed, always with attentive supervision. The portion can be 3-5 tablespoons (45-75g or 1.5-2.5oz), included as part of a varied meal with grains, protein (like fish, eggs, or poultry) and colorful vegetables or fruits. Continue to watch closely for choking risks with new textures and larger pieces, and adjust serving style as needed for your child’s chewing abilities.
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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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