Ketchup for babies baby led weaning

Ketchup for Babies

Not recommended at 6–18 months (salt, added sugar). Can be served from 18 months when prepared as described below. Low choking and allergen risk.

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Last reviewed: October 2026

Contains Vitamin CAntioxidant SourceFlavor EnhancerLycopene RichLow in ProteinLow Fiber ContentContains Added SugarContains Added Salt
Allergen Risk
Low (2/5)
Choking Hazard
Very Low (1/5)
Always read the safety guidance before serving

Ketchup at 6–9 Months

Not recommended

The NHS advises against giving salty foods and added sugar to babies because their kidneys cannot cope with salt and sugar encourages tooth decay.

SaltAdded sugar
Milestones for 6–9 months

Ketchup at 9–18 Months

Not recommended

The NHS advises avoiding high-salt and sugary foods before 12 months. From 12 months, small amounts of low-salt, unsweetened ketchup may be introduced occasionally.

SaltAdded sugar
Milestones for 9–12 months

How to Serve Ketchup to a 18+ Months Old

Prepare with care

Only if made without added sugar and low in salt.

The NHS recommends keeping salt and sugar low in young children's diets. Standard ketchup is typically high in both.

SaltAdded sugar

Serving Instructions

Toddlers can have ketchup occasionally as a condiment or dip. Choose varieties with no added sugar and low sodium, serving it alongside a balanced meal with vegetables, grains, and proteins.

Milestones for 18–24 months
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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.

Sources for this page

  1. NHS
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