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Can babies eat fennel?
Fennel can be offered once your baby has started solids, prepared to suit their stage.
How to cook fennel for a baby
- Method
- Roast or steam
- Ready in
- 15 Min.
- Texture
- Smooth purée or soft mash
How you cut and serve fennel changes as your baby grows. That is set out age by age below.
How to prepare fennel, age by age
- 6 to 8 months
- Slice the bulb, roast or steam until very soft, then blend to a smooth purée.
- 9 to 11 months
- Soft roasted or steamed fennel mashed with other vegetables like potato.
- 12 to 17 months
- Soft roasted fennel pieces cut into small soft chunks.
- 18 months and over
- Soft fennel pieces as finger food or sliced into a meal.
Choking risk
Always cook fennel until very soft before serving to babies. The raw bulb is firm and fibrous and poses a choking risk. Avoid raw fennel fronds for young babies.
Watch: How to avoid choking
Is fennel an allergen?
Fennel is not one of the main food allergens. Any new food can cause a reaction the first time it is offered, so give it on its own and stay with your baby while they eat.
Is fennel good for babies?
Fennel has a gentle anise flavour that many babies enjoy, and it's known for its soothing effect on the digestive system — traditionally used to ease colic and wind. It is rich in Vitamin C and potassium and introduces babies to a wide variety of flavour profiles early, supporting adventurous eating.
- Vitamin C
- Fibre
- Potassium
- Folate
Storing fennel
In the fridge
2 Days. Store cooked fennel in a sealed container
In the freezer
3 Months. Freeze puréed fennel in ice cube trays — ideal for adding to soups
Baby recipes with fennel
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This page is general information based on NHS weaning guidance, not medical advice. Always stay with your baby while they eat. If you have concerns about allergies, choking or your baby's development, speak to your health visitor or GP.