First foods database
🥩 Veal for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies eat veal? Yes, from about 6 months. Veal is tender with a mild flavour, so it is an easy red meat for new eaters, and it provides protein, zinc and vitamin B12 along with some well-absorbed iron.
Good source of: Protein, Zinc, Vitamin B12, Iron
How to serve veal by age
6 to 9 months
Use veal mince in soft sauces, or slow-cook diced veal until very tender, then shred or blend with vegetables and the cooking liquid.
9 to 12 months
Offer soft meatballs or finely chopped tender veal in sauce with pasta or mash.
12 months and up
Serve as escalopes cut into thin strips, or in stews and ragù alongside the family.
Choking safety
Thin escalopes can become chewy if overcooked, so keep them tender and cut into small pieces. Mince and slow-cooked veal are easiest for babies. Avoid serving large chunks that need lots of chewing. Always stay with your baby while they eat, and offer food with them sitting upright.
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
- Cook mince through thoroughly.
- No added salt.
- Rest and slice escalopes thinly across the grain.
Easy ideas
- Veal meatballs in tomato sauce
- Veal and mushroom stew
- Breaded veal strips with mash
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat veal?
Can babies eat veal? Yes, from about 6 months. Veal is tender with a mild flavour, so it is an easy red meat for new eaters, and it provides protein, zinc and vitamin B12 along with some well-absorbed iron.
Is veal easier for babies than beef?
It is more tender and milder, which some babies prefer. Both are good sources of protein and iron, so you can offer either.
Can babies eat breaded veal?
Yes, homemade without added salt and cut into thin strips. Baking rather than frying keeps it soft inside.
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).