Fig for Babies
Complete guide on how to prepare and serve fig to your baby, by age.
Safety Information
How to Serve Fig to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, peel the fig first to minimize any risk of irritation. Slice the fig into long, very thin strips or mash the interior flesh thoroughly so it creates a soft, spreadable consistency. Remove any obvious large or firm seeds if present, as young babies may struggle to manage these. Ensure the resulting pieces are soft, slippery, and easy to gum, either served alone or spread thinly on a spoon or toast for self-feeding. Avoid serving whole or large pieces at this age as they can pose a moderate choking risk, especially if baby bites off a chunk.
Serving Instructions
Begin with about 30-40 grams (1-1.5 oz) of fresh fig as part of a meal that includes an iron-rich food (like lentil purée), a healthy fat (such as avocado), and a carbohydrate (such as soft-cooked oats). Limit to 1 small fig per meal. Monitor for mild reactions, as figs are generally low allergenic but may cause mild irritation around the mouth. Introduce figs alone for the first few tries to watch for any response. Always serve soft and avoid mixing with sticky foods.
How to Serve Fig to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
For 9-18 months, figs can be offered peeled or with the skin if baby is managing textures well (always supervise closely). Cut the fig into bite-sized pieces—ideally, quarters or small cubes (around 1 cm / 0.4 in). If the skin is tough, consider removing it. Inspect for firm seeds and remove if large. Figs can be mashed and mixed into yogurt or oatmeal. At this age, babies may want to pick up pieces themselves, so ensure the pieces are small, soft, and not sticky or tough.
Serving Instructions
Offer around 40-60 grams (1.5-2 oz) of fresh fig as part of a well-rounded meal that includes protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. At this age, combine fig pieces with yogurt, porridge, or finely chopped nuts (if already introduced and tolerated). Continue to serve soft and manageable pieces. Avoid sticky or dried figs that may be harder to chew. Ensure figs are one part of a diverse menu including vegetables and iron-rich items.
How to Serve Fig to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
For children 18 months and older, figs can usually be served raw with the skin on, provided your child is comfortable with mixed textures and is chewing well. Slice into halves, quarters, or bite-sized pieces according to their chewing skills. Continue to supervise eating, as chunks can still be a moderate choking risk if large. Dried figs should be avoided or finely chopped and soaked, as they are sticky and a potential hazard. Incorporate in salads, cereals, or as a snack, always observing your child closely while eating.
Serving Instructions
From 18 months, offer about 50-70 grams (1.8-2.5 oz) of fresh fig at once, including as a snack or in salads, porridge, or on toast. Balance the meal with protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Figs can be part of fruit salads, combined with cheese or nut butters (if safe and introduced). Always supervise, as figs are sweet and may be consumed quickly. Limit dried figs as they are sticky and pose a higher choking risk. Encourage variety at this age.
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