Broth (Stock)

Broths and stocks may be introduced as an ingredient in meals or as a drink as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. When serving broth as a drink, limit the amount to less than 4 ounces (118 milliliters) a day before the first birthday, since breast milk and/or formula should be baby’s primary source of hydration and nutrition for the first year of life. 

Simmer bones covered in water, with plants and seasonings if you like, until the liquid is rich with collagen and full of flavor. Humans have been endlessly adapting this time-honored recipe since our ancestors first used a pot to boil water, or even before—using natural containers like animal stomachs to hold and heat the liquid. In modern times, cooks use different names for the warm elixir. Often, it is known simply as broth, an ancient word used to describe liquid boiled with any ingredient. Others call it stock, the name popularized by famed French chef, Auguste Escoffier. These terms are often used interchangeably, though others draw distinctions between the two.

Yes, although when serving as a drink to babies under 12 months of age, it should only be offered in small amounts and in an open or straw cup, not a bottle. Babies can become quite efficient with bottles and, if served broth in a bottle, may drink a large amount and displace the complete nutrition offered by breast milk and/or formula.

The nutrition in broth can vary depending on a number of factors. In general, broths and stocks are a good source of fluid, sodium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc. They are often a source of protein and fat as well. These nutrients help support hydration, electrolyte balance, bone density, red blood cells, and taste perception. 

Most broths and stocks contain some sodium, which supports hydration, movement, and the balance of electrolytes in the body. Consider serving high-sodium broths and stocks only on occasion, as baby’s sodium needs are generally low. That said, the amount of solid food that baby consumes tends to be low as they practice feeding themselves, and as a result, the amount of sodium consumed also tends to be low. Learn more about sodium for babies.

★Tip: When making broth at home, adding an acid such as apple cider vinegar or lemon juice helps healthy minerals leach out of the bones and into the liquid. Additionally, the longer you cook animal bones (up to 12 hours), the more nutrients will be available in the broth.

No. Broth made from meat or poultry (and the animal meat that may linger on the bones used to make it) is not a common allergen, although broths and stocks may contain common allergens such as soy and wheat, among others. While uncommon, allergies to beef, chicken, and pork have been reported. Finally, bone broth can be high in histamine, especially if it is cooked for an extended period of time. For some individuals, eating foods high in histamine can result in symptoms that mimic those of an allergic reaction.

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.

No. Broth 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, prepare and serve broth 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.

Yes, in small amounts, no more than 2-4 ounces (~60-120 mL) for babies under 12 months of age. Avoid offering broths or stocks in a bottle. For children older than 12 months, it is fine to offer more as part of a variety of food and drink in the diet.

It’s flexible. Generally speaking, bring baby to the table at least once per day between 6 and 7 months of age, twice per day between 8 and 9 months of age, and 3 times per day starting at around 10 months of age. See our sample feeding schedules for details.

When first getting started, offer a small amount and trust that baby knows how to show interest in wanting more by grunting, pointing, or reaching out. Keep in mind that most babies between 6 and 9 months of age do not consume much solid food at first. For babies between 10 and 12 months of age, work toward what a balanced adult meal would look like, just with smaller portions than what you might have. Follow the child’s lead: when baby indicates “more”, offer more food. When baby shows signs that they are finished, stop offering food.