Nut
Peanut butter is a creamy, protein-packed spread that can be a wonderful addition to your baby's diet. It's rich in healthy fats that support brain development1 and contains important vitamins and minerals. The smooth texture and nutty flavor make it appealing to many babies when introduced properly.
Peanut butter can be introduced around 6 months when starting solids, but it's important to follow safe introduction guidelines for this common allergen.
Store peanut butter in a cool, dark place after opening. Natural peanut butter should be refrigerated and used within 2-3 months, while commercial varieties can last 3-6 months at room temperature.
6 to 9 monthsFor babies 6-9 months, thin smooth peanut butter with breast milk, formula, or water to a drippy, pourable consistency. You can spread a thin layer on a soft food like a banana slice or offer it on a pre-loaded spoon for self-feeding. Avoid thick globs to prevent choking.
9 months +For babies 9 months and up, you can offer slightly thicker peanut butter as they develop better chewing and swallowing skills. Spread it thinly on toast strips or mix it into oatmeal or yogurt. You can also introduce small, soft peanut butter balls rolled in crushed cereal for added texture.
Peanut allergy affects about 2% of children in the United States2, making it one of the more common food allergies in infants.
Watch for symptoms:
Introduce peanut butter early (around 6 months) as research shows this may help prevent peanut allergy development3. Start with a small amount (¼ teaspoon) mixed with breast milk or formula, and watch for reactions for 2 hours. Consult your pediatrician first, especially if your baby has eczema or other food allergies.
Peanut butter provides healthy monounsaturated fats that support brain development in infants1. It's also a good source of plant-based protein for growth and contains magnesium for bone health4 and vitamin E, an important antioxidant5. The B vitamins in peanut butter help convert food into energy6.
Pair peanut butter with vitamin C-rich foods like strawberries or oranges to enhance iron absorption from other foods in the meal7.
Choose natural, unsweetened peanut butter with no added salt, sugar, or hydrogenated oils. Look for varieties with just peanuts (and maybe a little oil) on the ingredient list. Avoid 'low-fat' versions as babies need healthy fats for development.
Start with just ¼ teaspoon mixed with breast milk or formula. If there's no reaction, you can gradually increase to 2 teaspoons per serving. Remember that peanut butter is calorie-dense, so it should complement other foods rather than replace them.
Babies with severe eczema or egg allergy are at higher risk for peanut allergy8. Consult your pediatrician before introducing peanut butter—they may recommend allergy testing or supervised introduction. Early introduction under medical guidance can be especially important for these babies3.