Pimienta de Sichuan

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Sichuan peppercorn may be introduced as an ingredient in food as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. However, because it can cause intense sensations in the mouth, consider starting with a tiny amount of the powdered spice at first. Note that food with sichuan peppercorn may cause a harmless rash where they come into contact with baby’s skin, as well as cause or worsen diaper rash or digestive upset.

Sichuan peppercorns are the berries of a plant known as the prickly ash that grows in the southern province of China from which the spice derives its name. A main ingredient in Sichuan (also spelled Szechuan) cooking, the berries are typically dried and ground to a powder that is used on its own as a flavor enhancer or mixed with other spices to create a blend, such as Chinese five-spice.

Yes. Whole sichuan peppercorns are small, round, and very firm, qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, remove whole peppercorns from a dish before serving to baby, and prepare and serve sichuan peppercorn 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. While not a common allergen, Sichuan peppercorns cause an intense tingling and numbing sensation in the mouth, which can simulate oral symptoms of an allergic reaction. As you would with any spicy  food, start by introducing small amounts of the spice and watch your baby carefully to gauge their reaction before increasing the quantity.

Yes. Sichuan peppercorn is generally recognized as safe when used in amounts typical in cooking and prepared in an age-appropriate way.^[1]

Contrary to popular belief, babies can enjoy big flavors, including sichuan peppercorns. Start with small tastes and adjust the spice level to suit the child. The goal is to try to have a joyful experience with the food. To reduce the numbing sensation, start with small amounts and taste the food before offering to baby. If it seems too strong, adjust the seasonings to mellow the flavor.

Yes. While sichuan peppercorns are not typically consumed in significant amounts, they offer a variety of beneficial plant compounds such as lignins, fatty acids, and antioxidants that help baby thrive.^{[2] [3]} Sanshool, a compound in the food that causes a tingly numbing sensation may initially feel startling for baby, so when introducing, start small amounts in food and follow baby’s cues and comfort.

★ Tip: When possible, choose whole sichuan peppercorns that have a strong smell. These are typically fresher and of higher quality.

¡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.