Fennel Seed

Yes. Fennel seeds are small and firm, and sometimes are eaten loose and dry, which are qualities that pose an increased risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve fennel seed in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. 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. Allergies to fennel seed are rare, but reactions have been reported. Ingestion, inhalation, and topical exposure to fennel seed and its essential oils have been associated with allergic reactions in certain individuals. Note that certain spice blends that feature fennel seed may contain common food allergens, so make sure to read labels thoroughly if your child has food allergies. 

Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), particularly those who are allergic to birch or mugwort pollen, sensitive to foods within the Apiaceae family (such as carrot and celery), or sensitive to hazelnut or stone fruits such as apples or peaches, may also be sensitive to fennel. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking fennel seed can help minimize the reaction.

Spices such as fennel seed can also cause symptoms that resemble allergic reactions. For example, inhaling a puff of powdered fennel seed can irritate the nasal passageways and trigger sneezing and coughing, but may not be triggered by an allergic reaction. Additionally, certain spices, like fennel seed, may cause contact rashes due to potentially skin-irritating components in the food, but not necessarily due to an allergy.

Foods seasoned with spices like fennel seed may cause a harmless rash around the mouth while baby eats or may cause or worsen diaper rash. Try applying a thin layer of barrier cream or ointment—such as pure petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil/wax balm—to baby’s face and diaper area to help prevent contact rashes.

Yes, fennel seed is generally recognized as safe when used in amounts typical in cooking. Fennel seed essential oil, on the other hand, should be avoided as its safety has not been sufficiently studied in children.

Yes. Fennel seed offers small amounts of a variety of vitamins, minerals like iron and calcium, and fiber. It also contains a number of plant compounds like polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and aromatics like anethole and kaempferol. Plus, fennel seed may help promote oral and digestive health.

Because mukhwas are firm in texture and difficult to chew, we recommend waiting to introduce them until a child is at least 2 years old and has mature chewing skills. Sugar-coated fennel seeds are often used in a variety of mukhwas, a common after-meal treat in South Asian cultures, to freshen the breath and aid digestion. While small in size, fennel mukhwas are a choking hazard and require skilled chewing, so introduce to toddlers with caution. Since they are typically consumed in small amounts, the small amounts of added sugar are fine on occasion for a toddler or young child.

While an occasional sip of fennel tea is okay, generally speaking, wait until after the child’s first birthday to serve fennel tea and only offer in moderation. During the first year of life, breast milk and formula are the primary sources of nutrition for babies, and tea and other drinks can take up space in the belly, which may decrease motivation to try other foods at mealtime.