Chicken 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 Chicken Broth in Dalo SolidsLast reviewed: October 2026
Safety Information
Always read the safety guidance before servingHow to Serve Chicken Broth to a 6–9 Months Old
Milestones for 6–9 monthsPrepare with care
Only if made without added salt or stock cubes
The NHS advises against adding salt or using stock cubes in food for babies, as their kidneys cannot process high sodium levels.
Serving Instructions
At this stage, chicken broth can introduce savory flavors alongside breast milk or formula. A serving of about 30-60 ml (1-2 oz) per meal is sufficient when offered as part of a balanced meal, such as alongside iron-rich purees or soft vegetables. Avoid adding salt. Always ensure the broth is lukewarm, fully strained, and served in small amounts, either by spoon or open cup with support.
How to Serve Chicken Broth to a 9–18 Months Old
Milestones for 9–12 monthsPrepare with care
Only if made without added salt or stock cubes
The NHS advises against adding salt or using stock cubes in food for babies under 12 months, as their kidneys cannot process high sodium levels.
Serving Instructions
For older babies and young toddlers, broth remains a gentle source of comfort and nutrition. Increase portion size to 60-90 ml (2-3 oz) per meal, mixed with bite-sized cooked grains, tiny pasta, or soft vegetables for variety. Continue to avoid salt and always ensure any inclusions are soft and small enough to minimize choking risk. Chicken broth works well as a sip alongside other foods rich in iron and healthy fats.
How to Serve Chicken 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
For toddlers over 18 months, chicken broth can be served as a soup base, a sipping drink, or to moisten rice and other grains. Portion size may range between 90-120 ml (3-4 oz) per meal, as part of a balanced offering that includes protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Homemade broth remains ideal to control sodium levels. Always ensure it is free of bones and large chunks.
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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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