Dairy

Fontina

Fontina is a creamy, semi-soft cheese from Italy with a mild, nutty flavor that many babies enjoy. It's a great source of calcium for building strong bones and teeth¹, and provides vitamin B12 which supports healthy brain development². The smooth texture makes it easy for little ones to manage when prepared appropriately.

PPippin Feeding TeamReviewed by feeding specialists · Updated January 2026

First age6m+

CategoryDairy

Common allergenYes

Choking riskMedium

When can babies eat Fontina?

You can introduce Fontina around 6 months when starting solids, as long as your baby shows readiness signs like sitting with support and showing interest in food. Always introduce dairy products one at a time to monitor for reactions.

Storage tip

Keep Fontina wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically lasts 2-3 weeks when stored properly. If you see mold developing, discard the entire piece.

How to serve Fontina by age

12 to 18 months

For babies 12-18 months, serve Fontina in thin, flat strips or small, meltable pieces about the size of a fingertip. You can also grate it finely and sprinkle over soft foods like mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. Ensure it's at room temperature or slightly warmed to soften the texture.

Cut into strips no larger than your pinky finger
Melt into omelets or pasta for easy eating
Avoid large chunks that could pose a choking hazard
Pair with soft fruits or veggies to balance the flavor
Monitor for any signs of dairy sensitivity

18 months +

For toddlers 18 months and up, you can offer slightly larger pieces of Fontina, such as small cubes or slices, as their chewing skills improve. It can be used in sandwiches, melted on whole-grain crackers, or added to casseroles. Continue to avoid very hard or thick pieces.

Introduce as part of balanced meals with fruits and vegetables
Use in cooked dishes like quesadillas or baked pasta
Encourage self-feeding with child-safe utensils
Offer water alongside to help with swallowing
Be mindful of portion size due to sodium content

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: Medium

Fontina can be a choking hazard if served in large chunks or when it's too firm. Always serve it melted, grated into fine pieces, or cut into very small, soft cubes appropriate for your baby's age. Avoid serving cold, hard pieces that could break off in large chunks.

Common allergen

Cow's milk allergy affects about 2-3% of infants and young children³.

Watch for symptoms:

Hives
Swelling of lips or face
Vomiting or diarrhea
Wheezing or difficulty breathing

Introduce Fontina in a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) and watch for reactions for 2-3 days. Since it's a dairy product, it contains milk proteins that can trigger allergies. If there's a family history of milk allergy, consult your pediatrician before introduction⁴.

Vitamins & minerals

Fontina provides calcium essential for bone mineralization and growth¹, along with phosphorus that works with calcium to strengthen bones⁵. The vitamin B12 supports neurological development and red blood cell formation², while vitamin A contributes to healthy vision and immune function⁶.

Vitamins

Vitamin AVitamin B2Vitamin B12

Minerals

CalciumPhosphorusSodium

Nutritional synergy

Pair Fontina with vitamin C-rich foods like tomatoes or bell peppers, as vitamin C enhances iron absorption from other foods in the meal⁷.

Pairs well with

Age varies

Apple

Fruit

Age varies

Broccoli

Vegetable

Common questions

How do I know if Fontina is too salty for my baby?

Fontina has moderate sodium content, so offer it in small amounts as part of a balanced meal. You can soak thin slices in water for 10-15 minutes to reduce some saltiness before serving. Always check with your pediatrician about sodium concerns.

Can I use Fontina in cooked dishes for my baby?

Absolutely! Fontina melts beautifully, making it perfect for adding to scrambled eggs, pasta sauces, or vegetable purees. Melting also softens the texture, reducing choking risk. Just ensure it's fully melted and mixed well into the dish.

What if my baby seems gassy after eating cheese?

Some babies experience temporary digestive adjustments to dairy. Try offering smaller amounts and ensure Fontina is served at room temperature rather than cold. If symptoms persist or include vomiting or rash, contact your pediatrician to rule out intolerance or allergy.