Can Babies Eat Apples?

Apples are sweet and edible fruits produced by apple trees, originating in Central Asia. They are cultivated worldwide now, after being grown for thousands of years in Asia and Europe, and being spread in North America by colonists from Europe. Apples are cultivated for various purposes: for cooking, eating raw and for cider production. Apples are also religious and mythological symbols.

Apples are recommended as first foods for babies, because they do not cause allergic reactions, if they are peeled, and are easily digestible. They are high in fibers, vitamin C, potassium and vitamin K. They are excellent for digestion, for bones and immunity. The saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” underlines the benefits of apples for the immune system, not only for babies, but also for adults.

Starting at the age of 6 months you can give your baby juices and pureed foods. It is recommended to give your baby juices from a cup and not from a bottle. It is also important not to give applesauce and apple juice at the same time, and for reducing the risk of tooth decay, it is relevant to offer apple juice only with meals and not as a separate meal.

The difference between baby food applesauce and regular applesauce is that baby foods are more finely processed, texture and consistency are very important. If you decide to make your own applesauce, pay attention to the texture of the food!

Apples, but especially apple skin, represent a major choking risk for babies and can upset their tummies. Peels can also trigger allergic reactions in sensitive babies, due to the fact, that the allergenic potency of some foods, including apples, is much higher in the peel than in the flesh of the fruit.

Apples should be peeled for babies under 8 months, afterwards they can handle this part of apples too. From 18 months to the age of 2 years, babies can eat slices of apples, once they can chew food well, but still attention must be paid to the right size of the slices you offer them.

Apple Oats Porridge starting at the age of 8 months

Take ¼ cup of whole oats, add 1 cup of water and mix it well, so that there are no lumps remained. Cook the porridge for 5 minutes, to get a slightly thick mixture, add 1 medium sized, peeled and grated apple. Cook the mixture for another 3-5 minutes until the apples are cooked well. Cool it down, but serve it warm.