First foods database
🍎 Apple cider vinegar for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies have apple cider vinegar? A small splash used in cooking or dressings is fine from about 6 months, where it adds a fruity tang. It should never be given as a drink, a tonic or a home remedy, as undiluted vinegar is acidic and can hurt a baby's mouth and throat.
Good source of: Flavour
How to serve apple cider vinegar by age
6 to 9 months
Use just a few drops (around 1/4 teaspoon) in a family-sized pot of lentil soup, bean stew or tomato sauce to brighten the flavour. Your baby's portion can then be blended or served as soft finger foods.
9 to 12 months
Whisk a few drops into olive oil for a simple dressing to drizzle over soft cooked vegetables, avocado or cucumber.
12 months and up
Use apple cider vinegar in homemade coleslaw, salad dressings and quick pickled vegetables. Avoid sweetened shop-bought pickles.
Choking safety
Vinegar is not a choking risk itself. Raw vegetables served with dressing (such as cabbage in coleslaw) should be finely grated for young children.
Gagging is common and noisy while babies learn to eat. Choking is usually silent. Always stay with your baby while they eat, sitting upright. How to help a choking baby (NHS).
Good to know
- Never give undiluted vinegar or vinegar drinks to babies or children.
- Apple cider vinegar may contain sulphites; check the label if your child is sensitive.
Easy ideas
- A splash in a pinto bean and tomato stew
- Grated apple and carrot coleslaw for toddlers
- Cucumber with olive oil and cider vinegar dressing
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat apple cider vinegar?
Can babies have apple cider vinegar? A small splash used in cooking or dressings is fine from about 6 months, where it adds a fruity tang. It should never be given as a drink, a tonic or a home remedy, as undiluted vinegar is acidic and can hurt a baby's mouth and throat.
Can apple cider vinegar help baby colic?
There is no evidence for this, and it should not be given to babies as a remedy. If your baby is unsettled, talk to your health visitor or GP.
Can babies have vinegar?
Yes, in small amounts in cooking. It is a flavouring, not a drink.
Is apple cider vinegar good for constipation in babies?
No, it is not recommended. Offer water with meals, fruit, vegetables and wholegrains, and ask your health visitor or GP if constipation continues.
Sources
OBubba gives general information based on UK guidance. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Every baby is different. If your baby has a known allergy, severe eczema or a medical condition, speak to your doctor or health visitor before starting solids. Learn baby first aid, and in an emergency call your local emergency number (999 in the UK).