Cayenne Pepper

No. Ground cayenne pepper 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 cayenne pepper 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.

No. Allergies to cayenne ingestion are rare but have been reported. In those with cayenne pepper allergy, inhalation of the powder can also result in acute asthma symptoms. People who are allergic to latex or pollens (particularly birch or mugwort pollen) may also be allergic to peppers, such as cayenne, or experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome) upon ingestion. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking cayenne pepper may help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.

Contact rashes are more frequently reported in sensitized individuals. In both children and adults, contact irritation reactions—such as temporary rashes, eye irritation, and digestive upset—to spicy peppers are frequently mistaken for allergic reactions. However, this is commonly due to the irritating qualities of capsaicin, the spicy component of peppers, in sensitive individuals, and is not typically a true allergic reaction.

Spicy foods like cayenne pepper may cause a harmless rash around the mouth while baby eats or may cause or worsen diaper rash. If baby has especially sensitive skin, consider applying a thin layer of barrier cream or ointment—such as pure petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil/wax balm—to baby’s face and bottom before serving foods prepared with cayenne to help prevent contact rashes.

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.

Yes. Cayenne pepper offers small amounts of a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In particular, cayenne contains vitamins A, C,  E, and K. Together, these nutrients help aid digestion, vision, immunity, and bone health. They also contain a variety of carotenoids like beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, in addition to antioxidants and phytochemicals. Research also suggests that cayenne offers anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

Contrary to popular belief, babies can enjoy big flavors, including heat from ingredients like cayenne. Consider starting with small tastes and adjust the spice level based on the child’s responses and preferences. The goal is to follow the child’s lead and create positive experiences with new foods and flavors. Taste the dish before serving to baby, and if the dish seems too spicy, adjust the seasonings to mellow the flavor.

Avoid cayenne pepper capsules, extracts, and supplements for babies and toddlers, as research on their safety is limited and their use has been associated with stomach upset and skin irritation.

★Tip: Balance the heat by serving foods seasoned with cayenne alongside creamy and cooling foods like mashed avocado, plain yogurt, or age-appropriate milk, like breast milk, formula, or cow’s milk.  Acidic or water-based foods and drinks can intensify the heat.

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.

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. A few of our favorite first foods include cooked broccoli, oatmeal, and mango pits.