Vegemite

Vegemite 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 vegemite regularly until after the first birthday.

Vegemite is a thick, savory spread made from brewer’s yeast extract and has been a staple food in Australia since the early 20th century. Developed as a way to use byproducts of beer brewing, vegemite became widely embraced during periods of food rationing and has since become a beloved cultural symbol of Australian cuisine. It is traditionally spread thinly on toast or crackers and used to add umami to soups, sauces, and cooked dishes.

• Pair with fats like butter, mashed avocado, or a mild cheese to help balance vegemite’s 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 vegemite in warm water to create a quick, savory vegetarian broth. Then, use the broth to make soup or cook grains, meats, or vegetables.

No. Vegemite 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 vegemite 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. Vegemite often contains wheat (gluten), which is a common allergen. Always check ingredient labels, especially if managing food allergies.

Prior to sharing vegemite 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 vegemite, 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. Vegemite 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.

Vegemite 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.

Vegemite is quite high in sodium, which is why it’s best offered in small amounts for toddlers and older children, but an occasional taste is fine for babies as part of a varied diet.

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.