Butternut Squash

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

Squash originated in Central America, where the plant has been grown by Indigenous people for thousands of years, but it was not until the 20th century that the modern-day butternut variety was developed. A descendant of the curvy Canadian crookneck and a cousin of calabaza, today’s butternut squash has been cultivated to withstand colder climes outside of the tropical and subtropical regions in which the native plant thrives.

Yes. Butternut squash is an excellent source of fiber and offers plenty of vitamin A for eyesight, B vitamins for healthy blood, vitamin C for resilient skin, and vitamin E for brain development. Vitamin C also helps baby absorb iron from plant-based foods, so consider serving butternut squash with iron-rich foods like beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. Lastly, butternut squash is high in carotenoids, some of which our bodies convert to vitamin A. In fact, the longer that butternut squash is allowed to cure after harvest, the more carotenoids it produces.  Studies indicate that carotenoids may reduce the risk of cancer and help regulate free radicals that our bodies naturally produce.

No. Allergies to butternut squash are rare, though it’s not uncommon to get an itchy rash on the hands after handling winter squashes.  To minimize any reaction, wash your hands after preparing the squash. Also, apply a barrier ointment (such as pure white petroleum jelly) to baby’s face before eating, and wash face and hands after eating.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity on its own for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

No. Cooked butternut squash 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 butternut squash in an age-appropriate way. 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.

You can if you’d like, but there's no developmental need to start with textureless food. Babies can be served modified versions of what you eat. Use our First Foods Database to find how to safely serve any food.

There are many wonderful options. Look for foods that are easy for baby to feed to themselves, that are low in choking risk, and that offer nutrients babies need, such as iron. Some of our favorite first foods include steamed broccoli, oatmeal, and mango pits. See more ideas in our guide, 50 Fantastic First Foods.