First foods database
🌭 Mustard for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies have mustard? Yes, a little mild mustard is fine from about 6 months, cooked into food. Mustard is one of the 14 major allergens in the UK, and prepared mustards can contain salt, so small amounts are best.
Good source of: Flavour
How to serve mustard by age
6 to 9 months
Add a pinch of mustard powder or 1/4 teaspoon of mild Dijon to a white sauce, then stir through cauliflower cheese or pasta. Cooking it softens the heat. Offer soft cauliflower florets in the sauce as finger food.
9 to 12 months
Stir a tiny amount of wholegrain mustard into mashed potato, lentils or a sauce for chicken. Keep it mild and well mixed in.
12 months and up
Mild mustard can be used as a condiment in small amounts on sandwiches or in dressings. Save English mustard, which is very hot, for older children.
Choking safety
Mustard is a low choking risk. Whole seeds in wholegrain mustard are tiny and soft in sauces.
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
- Mustard is an allergen. Offer a small amount first, watch for a reaction, and keep it in the diet if all is well.
- Prepared mustards contain salt; use only small amounts for babies.
Introducing it as an allergen
It contains mustard, one of the 14 major allergens. How to introduce mustard
Easy ideas
- Cauliflower cheese with a pinch of mustard
- Mustard mash with peas
- Honey-free mustard and yoghurt dressing
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat mustard?
Can babies have mustard? Yes, a little mild mustard is fine from about 6 months, cooked into food. Mustard is one of the 14 major allergens in the UK, and prepared mustards can contain salt, so small amounts are best.
Is mustard an allergen?
Yes, it is one of the 14 allergens. Introduce it carefully. People with a mustard allergy may react to leaves, seeds and powder.
Can babies have English mustard?
It is strong and hot, so it is best avoided for babies and saved for older children who enjoy it.
Is honey mustard OK?
Not under 12 months, because honey can cause infant botulism. Use plain mustard instead.
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).