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Eggs (from chicken, duck, quail, and other fowl) may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Fun fact: Because the yolk of duck eggs is larger—and larger in proportion to the egg white—duck eggs are more nutritious than chicken eggs.

Yes! Duck eggs (and eggs in general) are a terrific source of fat and protein, plus they contain lots of iron and even some zinc—two nutrients that babies really need to thrive.

In fact, eggs (particularly the yolks) contain almost every vitamin (with the exception of vitamin C) and duck eggs have tons of selenium and B-vitamins, especially vitamin B12. Eggs are also one of the best sources of cholesterol and choline—two important nutrients for bone building, brain development, and cellular growth. Best of all: eggs are one of the only food sources of vitamin D, which helps our bodies absorb calcium to power bone growth.

Eggs are one of the most nutritious foods that you can give to your baby, but be careful that they are fully cooked before serving. Eggs may contain salmonella, which can result in a bacterial disease in the intestinal tract.

They can be. The best preparation of eggs for babies starting solids is via an omelet, which not only reduces the risk of choking compared to, say, a hard boiled egg, but integrates the nutritious yolk into each bite.

For more information, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with common choking hazards.

Yes. Eggs are among the top food allergens—second only to milk. That said, it is estimated that only 2% of children have an egg allergy. Fortunately, many children outgrow egg allergies.

When you are introducing eggs to your baby for the first time, it’s best to start with a small quantity, for example, letting your baby munch on one small slice of an omelet for a small amount of time, such as a minute or two. Some babies have severe reactions to even the smallest amount of eggs, so watch carefully for signs of an allergy or sensitivity.

Allergic reactions vary, from watery eyes, hives, rashes, wheezing, itching, facial swelling, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, and tummy cramps. If the reaction is severe, and/or if your baby is flushed or having trouble breathing, call 9-1-1 immediately, as your baby may be experiencing anaphylactic shock.

While fear of food allergies seems to be at an all-time high, modern science is demonstrating the benefits of introducing food allergens as soon as your baby is ready to start solids. For more detailed information on how to introduce common food allergens, check out our guide, Introducing Allergens to Babies.