Marmite

Marmite may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age, when offered in small amounts and on occasion. Aim to wait on sharing marmite regularly until after the first birthday due to its high sodium levels.

Marmite is a thick, dark, and sticky savory spread made from yeast extract. It was invented in the late 19th century by a German scientist working in the United Kingdom, who discovered that leftover brewer’s yeast could be concentrated, bottled, and eaten. Known for its intense and salty flavor, it has become a staple in British households—famously marketed with the slogan "Love it or hate it." It is traditionally spread very thinly on buttered toast or used as a flavor enhancer in soups and stews.

• Pair with fats like butter, mashed avocado, or a mild cheese to help mellow marmite's intense, salty flavor.

• Store the jar tightly sealed in a cool, dark place. Thanks to its high salt content and lack of moisture, it has a very long shelf life at room temperature.

• Use as a broth: Try dissolving a tiny spoonful of marmite in warm water to create a quick, savory vegetarian broth. Then, use the broth to make soup or cook grains, meats, or vegetables.

No. Marmite 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, serve marmite in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, make sure to 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.

Yes. Marmite often contains wheat (gluten), which is a common allergen. Always check ingredient labels, especially if managing food allergies.

Prior to sharing marmite with baby, it is important to introduce common food allergens on their own and rule them out as allergens before serving them together in a prepared food. This way, you’ll be able to identify which allergen is responsible if baby has a reaction. Then, when you are ready to offer marmite, you will be confident that baby has already safely eaten any common food allergens in the food.

Yes, in small amounts and on occasion due to its high sodium levels. Marmite is rich in B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate, which support energy metabolism and nervous system development. Many varieties are fortified with additional vitamins.

Marmite is also high in sodium, so it is best offered in small amounts. A small taste here and there is fine, but regular or large servings are best reserved for older children and adults.

No, but they are very similar. Both are savory, dark spreads made from leftover brewer's yeast and are famous for their intense umami flavor and high B-vitamin content. However, marmite originated in the United Kingdom and has a sticky, syrupy texture with a slightly milder, sweeter taste. Vegemite, which originated in Australia, has a thicker, paste-like consistency and includes added vegetable extracts and spices, giving it a more bitter flavor.

Babies can have a thin spread of marmite on toast as soon as they are developmentally ready for solids, which is typically around 6 months of age. Just offer sparingly due to high sodium levels.