Ketchup

Consider waiting to introduce ketchup until 12 months of age, as many varieties have high levels of sodium and sweeteners, including honey, which should be avoided until age one due to the risk of infant botulism. That said, an occasional small taste of honey-free ketchup is safe before the first birthday, and low-sodium, unsweetened ketchups are fine to share with babies.

Ketchup is often thought to be an American invention, but the condiment’s history and identity is much more complicated. Through trade and colonization, a sauce made of fermented fish known as ke-tchup or kê-tsiap spread from East Asia to Europe. In England, catsup or ketchup became a catch-all term for tangy sauces with notes of umami and sweetness made from a variety of ingredients, from mushrooms to green chestnuts. When colonization introduced tomatoes from the Americas to Europe, ketchup began to look like the modern version that is beloved worldwide today, with ingredients added to make the product more shelf-stable.

It depends. Ketchup is often high in sodium and sugar or other sweeteners, both of which should be minimized or avoided in infant diets. If sharing a taste of ketchup with babies under 12 months of age, avoid ketchup that is sweetened with honey, as honey carries a risk of infant botulism.

Nutritionally, ketchup offers some carbohydrates and a touch of vitamins C and K, folate, and an antioxidant called lycopene. While brands vary significantly in ingredients and additives, ketchup is completely fine as part of a toddler’s overall varied diet.

When shopping for ketchup, look for brands that have no or minimal amounts of added sodium and sugar (or other sweeteners). Some sugar-free ketchups still contain artificial sweeteners, which are best avoided for babies and young toddlers.

No, ketchup is not a common choking hazard, although the foods ketchup is served with could pose a risk. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No, ketchup does not typically contain common food allergens. However, be aware that certain varieties of ketchup may contain common food allergens, including finned fish, soy, or wheat, so be sure to read the label carefully.

Ketchup may contain sulfites, and while sulfites are not a common allergen, certain individuals, particularly those with asthma, may have allergy-like reactions to added sulfites.  If sulfites are a concern, avoid ingredients such as sulfur dioxide, potassium bisulfate, potassium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and sodium sulfite, to name a few.

Note that acidic foods, including the tomato and vinegar in ketchup, can cause a harmless rash on skin that comes into contact with the juices and sometimes contribute to diaper rash. Try applying a thin layer of barrier ointment (such as pure petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil/wax balm) to baby’s face and bottom to help prevent contact rashes.

Prior to sharing ketchup with a child, it is important to introduce any common food allergens in the condiment and rule them out as an allergy. This way, when you are ready to offer ketchup, you’ll be confident that the child has already safely eaten these common food allergens. This approach will also help you identify which food is responsible if the child has an allergic reaction when eating a dish that contains ketchup combined with other ingredients.

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 quantity over future meals.

There are lots of substitutes for ketchup and ketchup options that are more baby-friendly, including marinara sauce, salsa, and dips. You can also swap ketchup for hummus, ricotta cheese, yogurt or a dip made with low-sodium cream cheese mixed with your favorite seasonings.

Alternatively, make your own ketchup at home with no added sugar or salt. Simply blend tomato paste, garlic, onion, spices, and vinegar together, then cook the mixture until it is reduced to a paste, which can be stored in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for a couple of days or in the freezer for a couple of months.

No. While ketchup contains fluid and tiny amounts of fiber, it is not typically consumed in large enough amounts to affect baby’s pooping. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.