First Seasonings to Introduce to Babies
Discover safe herbs, spices, and seasonings for baby food — from cinnamon and garlic to mild curry — to build adventurous little eaters.
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Safe Herbs, Spices & Seasonings for Baby Food
Discover safe herbs, spices, and seasonings for baby food with Tummi's free seasoning guide. From cinnamon and garlic to mild curry powder and basil, learn which seasonings are safe to add flavor to your baby's meals and build adventurous little eaters from day one.
How to Season Baby Food
- Start with mild herbs and spices like cinnamon, garlic, basil, and cumin
- Avoid adding salt and sugar to baby food — use herbs and spices for flavor instead
- Download the Tummi app for seasoning guides and flavor pairing ideas
Safe Seasoning Guidelines for Babies
Introducing herbs and spices early helps develop your baby's palate and can make them more adventurous eaters long-term. Every seasoning in the Tummi database includes safety notes and age-appropriate usage tips. The key rule: no added salt or sugar before 12 months — use natural herbs and spices for flavor instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mild spices like cinnamon, cumin, garlic, turmeric, and paprika are safe from 6 months and can help your baby develop a varied palate. Avoid very hot spices like cayenne or chili flakes for young babies. Many cultures introduce bold flavors early with great results.
No, babies under 12 months should not have added salt. Their kidneys are not mature enough to process excess sodium. Use herbs, spices, garlic, and lemon juice to add flavor instead. After 12 months, very small amounts of salt are acceptable.
Honey should never be given to babies under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness. After 12 months, honey is safe in small amounts. This applies to all forms of honey — raw, cooked, and baked.
Most fresh and dried herbs are safe for babies from 6 months, including basil, oregano, thyme, dill, parsley, cilantro, and mint. Start with small amounts mixed into foods. Herbs are a great way to add flavor without salt or sugar.