Food guide
Pecorino
Pecorino can be introduced around 6 months, bringing a distinct, savory flavor to baby's meals. As a hard, salty cheese, it should be used in very small quantities to season foods.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: Grate a tiny amount finely over soft foods like pasta, purees, or vegetables. Offer sparingly due to its high sodium content. 9-12 months: Finely grated over meals, ensuring it's incorporated into soft, easy-to-manage foods. Continue to use in tiny amounts. 12+ months: Continue to use very finely grated and sparingly. For older toddlers with developed chewing skills, very small, soft shavings can be introduced with close supervision.
Nutrition
This cheese provides calcium for strong bones and teeth, and protein for growth and development. It also offers some vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function.
A note from the editors
Due to its strong flavor and high sodium content, use pecorino as a sparingly used seasoning rather than a primary food item for your baby.
Good to know
Pecorino is a dairy product, a common allergen. Introduce it one at a time and watch for reactions. Its high sodium content means it should be offered in very tiny amounts, as babies need very little salt. Never offer hard, large chunks which are a significant choking hazard.