Fonio

No. Cooked fonio presents a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve fonio in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. Note that loose grains of fonio are more likely to scatter in the mouth, which can cause gagging or coughing. If baby is struggling to manage the food, consider mashing the grains with the back of a fork or adding ingredients like broth, coconut milk, or sauce to help the grains stick together. 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, fonio, which is a form of millet, is not a common allergen. Allergies to millet are rare, but can be severe. Individuals who are allergic to rice may also be sensitive to millets such as fonio. In some cases, individuals with wheat or corn allergies may be sensitive to fonio and other millets as well; however, more research is needed. Fortunately, since fonio and other millets are gluten-free, they are appropriate for individuals with celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity to consume.

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

Yes. Fonio is a versatile gluten-free grain that offers carbohydrates, fiber, and protein, in addition to calcium, iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and zinc. It also is rich in antioxidants and polyphenols to help with bodily repair. Together, these nutrients provide energy to fuel baby’s play and exploration, as well as support digestion, growth, and development. They also support bone density, red blood cells, metabolic processes, taste perception, and more.

¡Ninguno! Sirve los alimentos sólidos directamente en la bandeja, plato o tazón del/a bebé y luego deja que el/la bebé explore con las manos. Si lo deseas, tenga una cuchara o un tenedor disponibles para ayudarlo/a a familiarizarse con los utensilios, pero no se espera que adquiera las habilidades para usarlos hasta que sea un poco mayor.

Si bien una silla alta puede ayudar a crear un entorno seguro para comer, existen formas alternativas para que el/la bebé coma de forma segura, así como sostenerlo/a en tu regazo o sentarse juntos en el suelo. Para obtener más información, consulta nuestra Guía detallada de sillas altas para bebés.