Rice cereal
Usually introduced around 6 months
Prep warning
Rice naturally takes up more inorganic arsenic than other grains, so rice cereal should not be the only cereal your baby eats. Offer a variety of iron-fortified grains, such as oat, barley, or multigrain, alongside it. Rice drinks are not a substitute for milk before age 5.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Iron-fortified rice cereal is a common first food. Mix the dry flakes with breast milk, formula, or water to a thin, smooth, slightly runny consistency and offer a few spoonfuls. Thicken gradually as your baby gets used to eating. Serve warm or at room temperature, never hot, and stir well to even out hot spots. Skip added salt and sugar.
Serve as a smooth, spoonable purée; no pieces to cut at this stage.
9-12 months
Keep offering it thicker now that your baby handles lumpier textures, and stir in mashed fruit or vegetable for variety. Pairing it with a vitamin-C food helps the body take up the iron. As your baby explores other grains, rotate in oat, barley, or multigrain cereals rather than relying on rice cereal alone.
Still a thick mash from the spoon; you can also spread a thin layer on a soft strip of toast for self-feeding.
12-18 months
Rice cereal can stay part of a varied grain rotation as your toddler moves toward family meals. Cook it thick and mix it with fruit, vegetable, or yogurt, and keep alternating with other grains. Continue to leave out added salt and sugar.
Serve in a bowl with a spoon, or spread on soft bread cut into bite-size strips.
Key nutrients
Common questions
When can my baby eat Rice cereal?
Most babies can try Rice cereal from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Rice cereal a choking hazard for babies?
Rice cereal 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 Rice cereal a common allergen?
Rice cereal 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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