Fruit

Lychee

Lychee is a sweet, juicy tropical fruit with a unique floral flavor and soft texture that many babies enjoy. It's packed with vitamin C, which supports your baby's immune system and helps their body absorb iron from other foods.¹ The natural sugars provide quick energy, while the fiber content aids in healthy digestion.²

PPippin Feeding TeamReviewed by feeding specialists · Updated July 2026

First age6m+

CategoryFruit

Common allergenNo

Choking riskMedium

When can babies eat Lychee?

Lychee can be introduced around 6 months when your baby starts solids, as long as it's prepared safely to avoid choking. It's a great way to introduce new flavors and textures.

Storage tip

Store fresh lychees in the refrigerator for up to a week. Once peeled, they should be used within 1-2 days. You can also freeze peeled lychees for up to 2 months.

How to serve Lychee by age

6 to 9 months

For babies 6-9 months, peel the lychee completely and remove the pit. Mash it into a soft puree or cut into very small, fingertip-sized pieces that are easy to gum. Ensure the texture is smooth to prevent choking.

Always supervise your baby while eating.
Test the ripeness by pressing gently—it should be soft but not mushy.
Offer small amounts initially to check for tolerance.
Mix with oatmeal or yogurt for added texture variety.
Avoid adding sugar or sweeteners.

9 to 12 months

For babies 9-12 months, peel and pit the lychee, then cut into small, bite-sized cubes or slices that they can pick up with their fingers. The pieces should be soft enough to mash easily with gums.

Encourage self-feeding by placing pieces on their tray.
Combine with other soft fruits like banana for a fruit salad.
Monitor for any difficulty chewing or swallowing.
Use as a topping on pancakes or toast strips.
Keep portions small to avoid overconsumption of natural sugars.

12 months +

For toddlers 12 months and up, you can offer peeled and pitted lychee halves or larger slices that they can bite into. They can also enjoy it in smoothies or as part of mixed dishes.

Teach them to spit out any remaining seeds if present.
Incorporate into meals like fruit kebabs or yogurt parfaits.
Watch for signs of overeating, as lychee is sweet.
Experiment with freezing lychee for a cool treat.
Pair with protein sources like cheese for balanced snacks.

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: Medium

Lychees have a slippery texture and round shape that can pose a choking risk. Always remove the tough outer skin and hard seed completely. For babies under 12 months, mash or puree the flesh thoroughly. For older babies, cut into very small, soft pieces.

Not a common allergen

Lychee is not a top allergen. As with any new food, offer it on its own and watch for any reaction.

Vitamins & minerals

Lychee is an excellent source of vitamin C, providing over 100% of daily needs in just 100g, which helps boost immunity and enhances iron absorption.¹ It also contains vitamin B6 for brain development³ and potassium for healthy nerve and muscle function.⁴ The copper content supports red blood cell formation and connective tissue health.⁵

Vitamins

Vitamin CVitamin B6Vitamin B9

Minerals

PotassiumCopper

Nutritional synergy

Pair lychee with iron-rich foods like spinach or lentils—the vitamin C in lychee helps your baby absorb plant-based iron more effectively.¹

Common questions

How do I select ripe lychees?

Look for fruits with bright red or pink skin that gives slightly when gently pressed. Avoid lychees with dark spots, cracks, or mold. The fruit should feel heavy for its size and have a sweet, fragrant smell.

Can I give my baby canned lychee?

It's best to use fresh lychees when possible, as canned versions often contain added sugars or syrups. If using canned, choose those packed in water or natural juice, rinse thoroughly, and check the label to avoid added sugars.

What if my baby doesn't like the texture?

Some babies might find the texture slippery or unusual. Try mixing mashed lychee with familiar foods like yogurt or oatmeal. You can also offer it as a puree first, then gradually introduce small soft pieces as your baby gets used to it.