
Can be served at 6–18 months when prepared as described below. Fine to serve from 18 months, prepared as described below. Watch for: milk as a main drink. Low choking and allergen risk.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Prepare with care
Only if used in cooking and not as a drink.
The NHS advises that plant-based milk alternatives should not be given as a drink before 12 months, but unsweetened varieties can be used in cooking or mixed with food from 6 months.
For babies 6 to 9 months, quinoa milk should only be used in cooking or mixed into food, such as oatmeal, porridge, or purees. Do not offer it as a drink in a cup or bottle, as plant-based milks do not provide the nutrients infants need and should not replace breast milk or infant formula. Choose plain, unsweetened quinoa milk without added sugars or flavorings.
Prepare with care
Only if used in cooking and not as a drink.
The NHS advises that milk alternatives should not be given as a drink before 12 months, but unsweetened, calcium-fortified plant drinks can be introduced as a drink from 12 months.
Before 12 months, quinoa milk should only be used in cooking or mixed into foods. From 12 months, unsweetened, calcium-fortified quinoa milk can be offered as an occasional drink in an open cup alongside meals, though water and breast milk or cow's milk remain the main drinks. Do not use it to replace breast milk or infant formula before 12 months.
Fine to serve
Suitable at this age with the usual preparation described below.
For children 18 months and older, unsweetened, fortified quinoa milk can be served as an occasional drink in an open cup or used in cooking as part of a varied diet. Water remains the best primary drink between meals. Choose plain versions without added sugars.
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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:
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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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