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Parsnip

Usually introduced around 6 months

3 key nutrients

Choking notes

Raw parsnip is a hard root vegetable, and hard raw pieces are a top choking risk for young children. Cook it until fork-tender, or finely grate it raw. Avoid raw hard sticks, coins, or chunks until your child chews well, around age 4.

How to serve by age

6-9 months

Prep

Peel parsnip and cook it until a fork slides through with no resistance, then mash it or offer a soft-cooked finger-length spear. Raw parsnip is hard and firm, so it needs to be cooked very soft before serving.

Cut

Smooth mash, or a soft-cooked finger-length spear.

9-12 months

Prep

Keep parsnip cooked fork-tender and offer it in small soft cubes or short pieces. You can also finely grate raw parsnip into cooked dishes. Avoid raw hard sticks or coins, which are tough to chew.

Cut

Small soft cooked cubes, or finely grated raw.

12-18 months

Prep

Serve parsnip soft-cooked in bite-size pieces, in thin soft-cooked matchsticks, mashed, or roasted until tender. Finely grated raw parsnip works in salads and mixed dishes. Whole raw hard pieces are still tough for this age.

Cut

Bite-size soft pieces, thin soft-cooked matchsticks, or finely grated raw.

Key nutrients

FiberVitamin CFolate

Common questions

When can my baby eat Parsnip?

Most babies can try Parsnip from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.

Is Parsnip a choking hazard for babies?

Parsnip 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 Parsnip a common allergen?

Parsnip 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.

Sources3

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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