Swiss Cheese for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve swiss cheese to your baby, by age.

High in CalciumProtein SourceBone Health SupportFat for BrainVitamin B12High EnergyEasy to Digest

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very High (5/5)

Choking Hazard

Moderate (3/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Swiss Cheese to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

For babies 6-9 months old, Swiss cheese should be offered in very thin slices (no thicker than 0.5 cm / 0.2 in) or shredded to reduce choking risk. You may also melt a small amount into mashed vegetables or grains for additional flavor. Avoid cubed cheese, which poses a high risk of choking at this stage. Always serve cheese as part of a balanced meal with fruits, vegetables, grains, and an iron-rich protein. Babies at this age need about 15-30g (0.5-1 oz) of cheese per serving, alongside other foods.

Serving Instructions

At this stage, Swiss cheese should be offered as a complement to iron-rich and vitamin C-rich foods to help balance the meal, as cheese is not a significant source of iron. Aim for a portion size of 15-30g (0.5-1 oz) as part of a meal including grains, fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Limit intake to once per day to moderate sodium. Always ensure cheese is pasteurized and check for signs of dairy allergy when introducing.

How to Serve Swiss Cheese to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

From 9-18 months, you may continue with thin slices or shredded cheese, and you can introduce cheese cut into matchstick-sized pieces (about 5 cm x 0.5 cm / 2 in x 0.2 in). Always supervise, as chunks can still be a choking hazard. Softening cheese on warm foods or mixing it into scrambled eggs or casseroles is a great way to add flavor and nutrition. Include 20-30g (0.7-1 oz) of cheese as part of a meal with grains, vegetables, and iron-rich foods for optimal nutrition.

Serving Instructions

Swiss cheese can be included in meals featuring whole grains, cooked vegetables, and protein sources. A serving of 20-30g (0.7-1 oz) is appropriate, paired with fruits or vegetables rich in vitamin C to support iron absorption, and an iron-rich protein source to balance nutrients. Limit cheese to once daily, opting for low-sodium varieties when possible. Always supervise while eating.

How to Serve Swiss Cheese to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

From 18 months onward, you may start offering small cubes of Swiss cheese (no larger than 1 cm / 0.4 in per side) if your child has mastered chewing and shows no tendency to store food in their mouth. Continue to supervise, as cheese can still be a choking hazard. Offer cheese with whole grain crackers, fruit, and veggies for a balanced snack, or melt into a sandwich or omelette. Portion size: 20-30g (0.7-1 oz) per meal as part of a varied diet.

Serving Instructions

Swiss cheese can become a regular part of meals and snacks—offer small cubes, slices, or melted in dishes. Stick to 20-30g (0.7-1 oz) per serving and balance with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and an iron-rich protein. Consider sodium intake, especially if cheese is eaten often. Cheese can be enjoyed 1-2 times per day as part of a varied, balanced diet.