Seed

Capers

Capers are tiny, tangy flower buds that add a burst of flavor to baby's meals. They're packed with vitamin K for healthy blood clotting¹ and vitamin C to support your baby's immune system². Their unique salty-sour taste can help introduce new flavors to your little one's developing palate.

PPippin Feeding TeamReviewed by feeding specialists · Updated January 2026

First age6m+

CategorySeed

Common allergenNo

Choking riskLow

When can babies eat Capers?

Capers can be introduced around 6 months when starting solids, but due to their high sodium content, they should be used sparingly as a flavor enhancer rather than a main ingredient.

Storage tip

Store capers in their original brine in the refrigerator after opening. They'll keep for up to a year when properly refrigerated and submerged in liquid.

How to serve Capers by age

12 months +

For babies 12 months and older, rinse capers thoroughly to reduce sodium, then mash or finely chop them. Mix into soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt dips, or pasta sauces to add a tangy flavor without overwhelming your baby. Ensure they're well-integrated to avoid any choking risk from whole pieces.

Always rinse capers under running water for at least 30 seconds to remove excess salt.
Mash capers with a fork or chop finely before adding to meals.
Start with a small amount (e.g., 1/2 teaspoon) to see how your baby reacts to the strong flavor.
Combine with mild foods like avocado or cottage cheese to balance the tanginess.
Store unused rinsed capers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: Low

Capers are naturally small and soft when preserved, posing minimal choking risk. For extra safety, you can mash them slightly or chop them finely before mixing into other foods like mashed vegetables or grains.

Not a common allergen

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

Vitamins & minerals

Capers provide vitamin K which is essential for proper blood clotting in growing babies¹. They also contain vitamin C that helps with iron absorption and supports immune function². The iron content contributes to healthy red blood cell development³, while the copper supports bone and connective tissue growth⁴.

Vitamins

Vitamin KVitamin CVitamin AVitamin B9

Minerals

SodiumIronCopperManganeseCalcium

Nutritional synergy

Pair capers with iron-rich foods like lentils or spinach, as the vitamin C in capers enhances iron absorption².

Common questions

Are capers too salty for my baby?

Yes, capers are quite salty due to their brine preservation. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water before using, and only add a small amount (like 1-2 teaspoons mashed) to a larger portion of unsalted food like mashed potatoes or vegetables.

How should I prepare capers for my baby?

Rinse capers well to remove excess salt, then mash or chop them finely. Mix them into other foods like yogurt, avocado, or cooked grains to dilute their strong flavor. Start with just a tiny amount to see how your baby reacts to the new taste.

Can I use caper berries instead of capers?

Caper berries (the fruit) are larger and have seeds, so they're not ideal for babies under 12 months. Stick with the small flower bud capers, and always prepare them safely by mashing or finely chopping.