First foods database
🥛 Soya drink for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies have soya drink? Unsweetened, calcium-fortified soya drink can be used in cooking from about 6 months. From 12 months it can be a main drink as part of a varied diet, but it is never a replacement for breast milk or formula before then.
Good source of: Protein, Calcium, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D
How to serve soya drink by age
6 to 9 months
Use unsweetened fortified soya drink in porridge, sauces and baking. It should not replace breast milk or formula. Look for drinks with added calcium, iodine and vitamins.
9 to 12 months
Continue using it in cooking, for example in porridge, white sauce or pancakes.
12 months and up
From 12 months, unsweetened calcium-fortified soya drink can be offered as a drink with meals, alongside a varied diet.
Choking safety
Not a choking risk. Offer drinks in an open or free-flow cup.
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
- Choose unsweetened, calcium-fortified versions.
- Soya is an allergen. Introduce a small amount first.
- Infant formula is the only suitable main milk alternative before 12 months if breastfeeding is not an option.
Introducing it as an allergen
It contains soya, one of the 14 major allergens. How to introduce soya
Easy ideas
- Soya drink porridge with berries
- Soya white sauce for cauliflower cheese
- Soya drink banana pancakes
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat soya drink?
Can babies have soya drink? Unsweetened, calcium-fortified soya drink can be used in cooking from about 6 months. From 12 months it can be a main drink as part of a varied diet, but it is never a replacement for breast milk or formula before then.
Can soya drink replace formula?
No. Before 12 months only breast milk or infant formula should be the main drink.
Is soya drink safe for toddlers?
Yes, unsweetened fortified soya drink is fine from 12 months as part of a balanced diet. Ask your health visitor for help choosing the right drink.
Sources
- NHS: What to feed young children
- NHS Start for Life: Weaning
- NHS: Food allergies in babies and young children
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).