When can babies have Spinach?
Spinach can be introduced from around 6 months of age, when your baby is developmentally ready to start complementary foods alongside breast milk or formula.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that provides folate, vitamin K, vitamin A and small amounts of iron. While spinach does contain iron, it is non-haem iron, which is less readily absorbed by the body than the iron found in animal foods. Pairing spinach with vitamin C-rich foods, such as tomatoes, broccoli or citrus fruits (when age-appropriate), can help improve iron absorption.

Spinach also contains naturally occurring nitrates. Current evidence indicates that cooked spinach can be safely offered to healthy babies from around 6 months as part of a varied diet. To minimise bacterial growth that can increase nitrite levels, prepare spinach fresh, refrigerate leftovers promptly, and reheat thoroughly before serving. Avoid leaving cooked spinach at room temperature for extended periods.

Is there any choking risk?
Whole spinach leaves can clump together into a slippery mass, making them more difficult for babies to manage, especially during the early stages of self-feeding. Large cooked leaves may also stick to the roof of the mouth, which can trigger gagging.

To reduce the risk, cook spinach until wilted and finely chop or mix it into other foods such as porridge, omelettes or mashed vegetables.

How to serve Spinach to babies?