Olive Oil

Oil

Is Olive Oil Safe for Babies?

Yes, olive oil can be introduced around 6 months of age, typically as a small amount added to foods, once babies are ready for solids.

Is my baby ready for Olive Oil?

Yes, butthere are some things to know

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How Do You Serve Olive Oil?

1
Drizzle olive oil over cooked vegetables, grains, fish, or meats to add healthy fats and boost calories.
2
Mix a small amount into purees, mashed foods, porridge, or soft finger foods to improve texture and energy density.
3
Start very small (about 1/4–1/2 teaspoon) and increase gradually as they accept it — never alone; always mix with food or offer on a spoon.
4
Choose extra-virgin olive oil for flavor and nutrients and store it in a cool, dark place; check with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.

Is Olive Oil a Common Allergen?

Dairy

Egg

Fish

Gluten

Tree Nut

Peanut

Sesame

Shellfish

Soy

Olive oil is not a common food allergen and most people tolerate it. Highly refined olive oils contain very little protein and are unlikely to cause reactions, but unrefined/cold‑pressed (extra‑virgin) oils can retain trace olive proteins, and rare allergic reactions to olive fruit/oil have been reported. If a child has a known olive (fruit) allergy, severe food allergies, or a history of anaphylaxis, consult an allergist before introducing olive oil. Note that olive pollen (hay fever) sensitivity is separate from an allergy to eating olives or olive oil.

What Nutrients Does Olive Oil Have?

High in healthy monounsaturated fat (oleic acid) with concentrated calories (~120 kcal per tbsp), plus small amounts of fat‑soluble vitamins E and K and antioxidant phenolic compounds. These fats provide energy for growth and brain development and help absorb fat‑soluble vitamins; olive oil’s polyphenols may offer anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Because it’s very calorie‑dense, use in moderation so it doesn’t displace other nutrient‑rich foods or contribute excess calories; avoid mixed oils that include allergenic nut/soy oils. Suitable to introduce around 6 months in small drizzles or used in cooking.

Is Olive Oil a Choking Hazard?

Very Low Choking Risk

Olive oil itself isn’t a choking hazard and generally presents a low risk for babies. However, any food can potentially cause choking, so stay within arm’s reach while baby is eating and make sure they are seated, alert, and supervised during meals.

Have More Questions?

Yes. Olive oil is suitable for babies from around 6 months old and can be used in cooking or drizzling over foods as part of a varied diet.

Yes. Olive oil contains healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants that support brain development, immune function, and overall growth in babies.

No. Olive oil is not considered a common allergen, but always check labels for potential cross-contamination, and introduce gradually to monitor for any reactions.

No. When prepared properly, olive oil does not pose a choking risk for babies. Serve in appropriate amounts and forms as recommended for your child's age and development.

Any type of olive oil suitable for family use—such as extra virgin, virgin, or cold-pressed—is fine to feed to babies, as nutritional differences are minimal.

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Sources

Health Effects of Phenolic Compounds Found in Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, By-Products, and Leaf of Olea europaea L. (Nutrients, 2019) doi.org
Authenticity Assessment of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Evaluation of Desmethylsterols and Triterpene Dialcohols (Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society, 2015) doi.org
Analysis of olive allergens (Talanta, 2012) doi.org
Oral Allergy Syndrome — American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology aaaai.org
Food allergy due to olive (Journal of Investigational Allergology and Clinical Immunology, 2009) pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov