Kiwi Berry

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

A cousin to the kiwi, kiwi berries originated in the colder regions of Asia including parts of Siberia, China, South Korea, and Japan. The kiwi berry is also known as baby kiwi, cold hardy kiwi, or grape kiwi. Some of these names suggest one of the significant differences from its cousin: kiwi berries are small, roughly the size of a grape. When cut open, they resemble the larger kiwi, with flesh that is often bright green with tiny black seeds, but the peel of the kiwi berry is fuzz-less and tends to be eaten along with the sweet-tart flesh.

• Pair with iron-rich foods like beans or lentils to enhance iron absorption.

• Store ripe kiwi berries in the fridge and enjoy within a few days for best texture and flavor.

Yes. Kiwi berries are small, round, and can be firm, which are qualities that pose an increased risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve kiwi berries 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 more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. Kiwi berry is not considered to be a common food allergen, although allergies to kiwi, a very closely related fruit, are being increasingly reported, with reactions ranging from mild to severe.^{[1] [2]} Additionally, some individuals may be sensitive to actinidin, an enzyme that is naturally present in kiwi and kiwi berry, and can also be used as a meat tenderizer in other foods.^{[3] [4]}If a child is allergic to kiwi, be sure to read food labels carefully and look out for kiwi berry as well. 

Individuals with latex fruit syndrome (including avocado, banana, chestnut) may be allergic to kiwi as well. Kiwi has multiple protein allergens that have been identified, many of which cross-react with other food allergens, such as peanut, tree nuts, and stone fruits. However, it is rare for an individual to be sensitized to all the possible kiwi allergens, and most people with kiwi allergies can safely consume these other foods. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome due to birch or beech pollen allergy (also known as pollen food allergy) may also be sensitive to kiwi and possibly by association, kiwi berry.^{[5] [6] [7] [2] [8]} Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Peeling and/or cooking kiwi berry and kiwi can help minimize the reaction.^{[8] [9]}

Acidic foods like kiwi berry are often mistaken for allergens as they can cause a harmless rash around the mouth as baby eats and can cause or worsen diaper rashes.^{[10] [11]} Barrier ointments can be applied to the face before mealtime to help protect the skin from acidic foods.

Yes. Kiwi berry has a potent array of 20 vitamins, minerals, and dozens of phytonutrients with antioxidant benefits.^{[12] [13]} For example, the tiny fruit is considered to be the one of the most concentrated food sources of vitamin C, an important nutrient that supports skin and immune health, as well as improves absorption of plant-based iron.^{[12] [13]} Kiwi berry also contains most B vitamins, particularly vitamin B6 for cell energy and an unusually high concentration of a lesser-known B-vitamin called myo-inositol, which is important for cell structure and function.^[12]

They’re closely related, but not the same fruit. Kiwi berries are a different species with smooth, thin skin, while kiwis are larger and have skin that is thicker and often fuzzy. Both fruits are sweet, tart, and contain similar vitamins and minerals.

Yes. Kiwi berry skin is thin and edible, just wash the fruit before serving.