First foods database
🫙 Yeast extract for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies have yeast extract? Only in tiny amounts, occasionally, from about 6 months. Spreads like Marmite are a good source of B vitamins but are very high in salt, so a very thin scraping on toast is all a baby needs, and low-salt versions are better.
Good source of: B vitamins, Folate, Vitamin B12
How to serve yeast extract by age
6 to 9 months
If you want to offer it, scrape the thinnest possible layer onto toast fingers spread with unsalted butter, or stir a pea-sized amount into a big family pan of lentils or stew.
9 to 12 months
Keep it to a very thin smear on toast, bagel or crumpet fingers once in a while, alongside lower-salt foods the rest of the day. Avoid adding it to anything else salty, like cheese.
12 months and up
Toddlers can have a thin scraping on toast now and then. Children aged 1 to 3 should have no more than 2g of salt a day, so it is still an occasional food, not a daily one.
Choking safety
Yeast extract itself is not a choking risk, but it is very sticky. Spread it thinly and evenly, never offer it straight from a spoon, and serve the toast as soft fingers with your baby 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
- Yeast extract is very high in salt; babies under 12 months need less than 1g of salt a day.
- Choose a reduced-salt version if you use it.
- Some brands contain barley (gluten) or celery; check the label.
Easy ideas
- Thin scraping on buttered toast fingers
- A pea-sized amount in a big pot of red lentils
- Cheese and yeast extract swirls as an occasional toddler bake
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat yeast extract?
Can babies have yeast extract? Only in tiny amounts, occasionally, from about 6 months. Spreads like Marmite are a good source of B vitamins but are very high in salt, so a very thin scraping on toast is all a baby needs, and low-salt versions are better.
Can babies have Marmite?
A very thin scraping occasionally is fine from about 6 months, but it is salty, so it should not be a daily food.
Why do people give babies yeast extract?
It is rich in B vitamins, including B12 in fortified brands, but your baby can get these from other foods too.
Is yeast extract gluten free?
Not always. Some contain barley, so check the allergen label.
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).