Should Babies Eat Herbs and Spices?

Should Babies Eat Herbs and Spices?

If you've ever wondered whether your baby can enjoy herbs and spices, the answer is yes! In fact, introducing a variety of flavours from the start can help babies become more adventurous eaters as they grow.

At Tiny Feast Co., we believe babies deserve delicious food too. Family meals don't have to be bland—you simply need to make a few thoughtful adjustments.

Why are herbs and spices a good idea?

Herbs and spices add flavour without relying on salt or sugar. Babies are born ready to explore new tastes, and offering a wide variety of flavours alongside different textures can help make mealtimes more interesting.

Many herbs and mild spices also feature in cuisines from around the world, so introducing them early can help your little one become familiar with the flavours your family already enjoys.

Which herbs are suitable?

Fresh or dried herbs can be introduced from around six months, provided they're mixed into food and your baby is developmentally ready for solids.

Some great herbs to start with include:

- Parsley

- Basil

- Chives

- Dill

- Coriander

- Mint

- Oregano

- Thyme

- Rosemary (finely chopped or infused into sauces)

- Sage

Fresh herbs are often softer and brighter in flavour, while dried herbs work brilliantly in casseroles, pasta sauces and slow-cooked dishes.

What about spices?

Mild spices can also be introduced from around six months. Start with small amounts and let your baby get used to each flavour.

Try:

- Cinnamon

- Nutmeg (a small pinch)

- Cumin

- Coriander

- Paprika

- Turmeric

- Mild curry powder

- Ginger

As your baby becomes more confident with different foods, you can gradually build up the variety and strength of flavours.

Are chilli and hot spices safe?

The spice itself isn't harmful, but very hot or fiery foods can be overwhelming for young children.

When cooking a family meal, it's often easiest to remove your baby's portion before adding fresh chillies, chilli flakes or large amounts of hot sauce to the adult version. This way, everyone still enjoys the same meal, just with a different level of heat.

What should I avoid?

It's not the herbs and spices that usually cause problems—it's what they're mixed with.

When cooking for babies:

- Avoid adding salt to their portion.

- Check shop-bought seasoning blends, as many contain high levels of salt.

- Be mindful of added sugar in some spice mixes and sauces.

- Introduce new ingredients one at a time if you're trying several for the first