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Fresh figs may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. 

This plump, teardrop-shaped fruit first grew wild in Southwest Asia, then spread throughout the Mediterranean and Northern Africa, where it was domesticated and began to resemble the cultivated fruits we know today. There are many fig varieties, each with variations in color of skin and flesh, from Black Mission figs with deep purple skin and crimson flesh, to the Brown Turkey figs with green skin with a purple blush and ruby flesh, to the Brunswick figs with golden flesh and dusty pink flesh.

Yes. Figs offer carbohydrates, fiber, and fluid, in addition to calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B6, C, and K. Together, these nutrients help provide energy to support baby’s movement and exploration, developing gut microbiome, and hydration. They also support bone density, electrolyte balance, metabolic processes, skin health, iron absorption, immune function, and blood clotting. They also contain plenty of antioxidants that support baby’s overall health.

★Tip: Fresh figs have a short shelf-life. To maximize their freshness in the fridge, store them spaced out to avoid bruising the fruit. Only wash the fruit right before serving, since storing with residual water on the fruit can cause mildew.

No. Fig allergies are uncommon, but have been reported. Individuals who are allergic to latex or who have Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) may be sensitive to fig. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. 

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity of fig for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes. Figs, especially when underripe or dried, can be firm and challenging to chew, qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve figs in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. 

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

No. Dried fruit is firm and challenging to chew, qualities that increase the choking risk. If a recipe or dish you’d like to share with baby calls for dried figs, try rehydrating the fruit in warm water and then mincing the rehydrated fruit and stirring it into the dish.