Prep warning
Cow's milk is not a main drink before 12 months (breast milk or formula stays primary), though small amounts cooked into food are fine from around 6 months. Always use pasteurized, full-fat milk; avoid unpasteurized (raw) milk. Milk is a common allergen, so introduce it on its own and watch for a reaction.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Whole cow's milk isn't a drink at this age, but small amounts cooked into food are fine. Stir a splash into oatmeal, a vegetable mash, or a white sauce. Use pasteurized, full-fat milk. Breast milk or formula stays the main milk for now.
Stirred into food as a liquid, not served in a cup.
9-12 months
Still not the main drink before the first birthday, but keep using it in cooking. A little milk works in mashed potato, scrambled egg, pancakes, or porridge. Choose pasteurized, full-fat milk. Hold off on plant-based drinks as a milk replacement at this stage.
Mixed into dishes as a liquid; not yet offered as a drink.
12-18 months
From the first birthday, full-fat pasteurized cow's milk can be offered as a main drink. Serve it in an open or sippy cup with meals. Keep it whole (not skimmed or low-fat) so toddlers get the fat they need, and watch the total so milk doesn't crowd out food and iron-rich meals.
Poured into an open or sippy cup, offered with meals.
Key nutrients
Allergen information
Milk is a common allergen. Read Milk guidance
Meal ideas with Cow's milk
Common questions
When can my baby eat Cow's milk?
Most babies can try Cow's milk from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Cow's milk a choking hazard for babies?
Cow's milk is considered a lower choking-risk food when served in age-appropriate sizes and textures. Follow the cut sizes above and always stay close during meals.
Is Cow's milk a common allergen?
Cow's milk contains Milk, one of the major food allergens. Offer a small amount the first few times and watch for a reaction — see the allergen notes above.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
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