Capers

Capers may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. While capers are typically high in sodium, they are often used in small amounts in cooking, and a taste here and there of a dish containing capers is fine as part of a varied diet.

Capers have been gathered and enjoyed in the Mediterranean for thousands of years, with references dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Harvested by hand from the caper bush, capers are actually small flower buds that are traditionally pickled or cured in salt. Capers remain an essential ingredient throughout their native region, lending brightness to dishes like Sicilian pasta puttanesca, Greek salads, Spanish tapas, and Tunisian stews.

• Rinse capers before serving to reduce sodium content if desired.

• Store opened jars in the fridge and use within a few weeks for best freshness.

Yes. Capers are small, round, and can be firm, which are qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve capers in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. Capers are not a common allergen, although allergic reactions to capers have been reported.^{[1] [2]}

Yes. While typically used in small amounts in cooking, capers offer a bit of fiber, vitamin K, flavonoids, and phenolic acids which help support digestive health and blood clotting, while also offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to support the body’s overall resiliency.^[3]

While capers are high in sodium, it is fine to share them in moderation as part of a varied diet. Capers are often used in small amounts and the amount of food that babies eat tends to be low as they learn the skills to feed themselves. Furthermore, sharing family meals, even if they contain salt, has its benefits: baby has opportunities to explore a wider variety of food, share their family food culture, and practice eating a variety of textures.^{[4] [5] [6] [7]}

While capers are high in sodium, it is fine to share them in moderation as part of a varied diet. Capers are often used in small amounts and the amount of food that babies eat tends to be low as they learn the skills to feed themselves. Furthermore, sharing family meals, even if they contain salt, has its benefits: baby has opportunities to explore a wider variety of food, share their family food culture, and practice eating a variety of textures.^{[4] [5] [6] [7]}