Fava beans
Usually introduced around 6 months
Choking notes
A whole fava bean is a round, firm choking shape, so slip off the tough outer skin, then mash or flatten each one. Never serve whole beans at this age.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Cook the beans until very soft, slip off the tough outer skins, then mash them smooth. Stir the mash into a purée or serve it as a thick spread so there are no whole beans.
Skins off, then mash or flatten every bean, no whole or round pieces.
9-12 months
As the pincer grasp comes in, offer skinned soft-cooked beans squashed flat. Keep flattening each bean so no round shape remains.
Skins off; squash each bean flat; halve any larger ones.
12-18 months
Serve skinned soft beans in family-style dishes, lightly squashed. Whole soft beans are fine only once your little one chews reliably.
Skins off; lightly squash; offer whole soft beans only when chewing is reliable.
Key nutrients
Common questions
When can my baby eat Fava beans?
Most babies can try Fava beans from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Fava beans a choking hazard for babies?
Fava beans carries a moderate choking risk for babies. Follow the age-appropriate cut sizes and textures above, and always stay close during meals.
Is Fava beans a common allergen?
Fava beans is not one of the major food allergens. Any new food can still cause a reaction, so keep an eye on your baby the first few times.
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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