Sun-dried Tomato Paste for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve sun-dried tomato paste to your baby, by age.

High in Vitamin CAntioxidant-RichLycopene SourceEasy to DigestFlavorfulLow Choking Risk

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Low (2/5)

Choking Hazard

Very Low (1/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Sun-dried Tomato Paste to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

Sun-dried tomato paste does not require cutting. For this age group, ensure the paste is smooth and free from any tough or chewy bits, as these could be difficult to manage for emerging eaters. It’s best to spread a thin layer onto a soft, age-appropriate bread finger, mix into purees, or stir into mashed vegetables for added flavor. Avoid offering the paste on its own in large amounts due to its concentrated flavor and potential salt content. Always check the ingredient list for added salt or preservatives, and opt for an unsalted variety whenever possible.

Serving Instructions

At this age, sun-dried tomato paste can be introduced in very small amounts as a flavor enhancer. Spread a thin layer (no more than 1/2 teaspoon or 2.5 ml) on soft bread fingers or mix into smooth vegetable purees and soft grains. Always use unsalted or low-salt varieties and avoid added oils or garlic. Pair with iron-rich foods like lentils, chicken, or egg yolk for a balanced meal and to help iron absorption. Monitor for allergic reactions as tomato is a common but mild allergen.

How to Serve Sun-dried Tomato Paste to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

No cutting required. For older infants and young toddlers, sun-dried tomato paste can be used as a flavorful spread or mix-in. Spread a thin layer onto bite-sized pieces of toast, omelets, or cooked pasta, or stir into soups and stews. Always supervise as some commercial varieties may contain small pieces of tomato skin; ensure the consistency is smooth before serving. Continue to prioritize low-salt or no-salt-added varieties, as sodium intake should remain minimal in this age group.

Serving Instructions

Offer sun-dried tomato paste as a flavorful spread or in mixed dishes. Limit to 1 teaspoon (5 ml) per meal, gently spread on toast or stirred into cooked grains, pasta, or eggs. Use as part of a balanced meal with vegetables and a source of protein (cheese, beans, fish, or chicken). Watch for sodium content and avoid strong-flavored, salted, or spicy commercial pastes. Tomato is mildly allergenic, so observe for any signs of reaction.

How to Serve Sun-dried Tomato Paste to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

No cutting needed. For older toddlers, sun-dried tomato paste can be incorporated into a wider variety of dishes. Use as a spread on sandwiches or crackers, mixed into whole grain pasta, or swirled into scrambled eggs. As children develop more advanced eating skills, they can enjoy bolder flavors, but always taste for salt content and choose varieties suited for young children. Remind children to eat slowly and with supervision, as the concentrated nature of the paste can make it sticky in the mouth.

Serving Instructions

For older toddlers, sun-dried tomato paste becomes a flexible ingredient. Use up to 2 teaspoons (10 ml) per meal, as a spread on sandwiches or added to main dishes like stews, pasta, or omelets. Combine with a variety of vegetables and a protein source for complete meals. Encourage trying new combinations and textures, but continue to limit salt and monitor for reactions to tomato.