Food guide
Sesame
Sesame can be introduced from around 6 months, as soon as your baby is on solids. It is one of the major allergens, and introducing it early - rather than holding off - is what lowers the chance of an allergy developing. Always serve it ground or as smooth tahini, never as whole seeds.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: A thin smear of smooth tahini on toast fingers, or stirred into puree, yogurt or porridge. Thin it with water or milk so it is not sticky. 9-12 months: Ground sesame or tahini mixed into hummus, soft vegetables or oatmeal. 12+ months: Tahini in dips and dressings, or ground sesame sprinkled over food. Still not whole seeds in a spoonful.
Nutrition
Rich in calcium for strong bones and teeth, high in magnesium, and a good source of iron and zinc. Sesame seeds also contain healthy fats which are important for brain development.
A note from the editors
Always check for allergies when introducing sesame seeds. Start with a small amount and observe for any allergic reactions.
Good to know
Sesame is a common allergen - introduce it on its own, in a small amount, and watch for a reaction. Whole sesame seeds are small and dry and can be inhaled, and a thick blob of tahini is sticky enough to be a choking hazard: always serve it ground or thinned.
