When served as cooked corn on the cob, corn may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old. It is our professional opinion that cooked corn on the cob carries less risk than loose kernels for babies 6 months and older, as baby’s gnawing changes the kernel shape and reduces choking risk. Because of their small size, firmness, and slippery consistency, loose, whole corn kernels are a potential choking hazard for babies younger than 12 months of age. 

Whole, loose corn kernels are a common choking hazard. Keep reading to learn how to safely introduce corn to babies.

Corn is an ancient grain with origins in Central and South America, where it evolved from a wild grass called teosinte. People living in the region learned how to cultivate the grain long before the arrival of Europeans, who introduced the plant overseas with its Taíno name, maize. For thousands of years, corn has represented life and sustenance for the Indigenous peoples of the Americas, who consider the plant to be sacred and the origin of all peoples.

Yes. Sweet corn (the variety of corn typically available canned, frozen, and on the cob) is rich in carbohydrates and fiber, as well as a good source of folate, zinc, B vitamins, phosphorus and vitamin C–essential nutrients for baby’s growth. Sweet corn also contains phytochemicals that promote healthy vision and antioxidants to support baby’s immune system.

When fresh corn is not available, frozen or canned corn are good alternatives. Just look for canned corn marked “no salt added” or “low sodium” and opt for cans marked “BPA-free,” when available. Bisphenol A (BPA) is used to line the interior of some food containers, and studies show that frequent exposure can affect baby’s neurological development.   

Yes. Whole, loose corn kernels are a potential choking hazard for babies.  To reduce the risk, serve corn on the cob, as baby’s gnawing will mash the kernels, effectively changing both their round shape and slipperiness. Serving on the cob also prevents baby from scooping up lots of loose kernels at once and shoveling them into their mouth, where they can scatter and confuse the brain. However you serve, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

Corn allergies are uncommon, but have been reported, with symptoms ranging from short-lived oral allergy symptoms to anaphylaxis.    Some individuals with allergy to lipid transfer proteins or chitinase may also have a corn allergy.    Corn is known to cross-react with other cereal grains, especially rice, wheat, and barley. However, most individuals with corn allergy can safely consume other cereal grains, and vice versa. 

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

Yes. Corn is very high in fiber, which increases stool bulk and promotes regular pooping.  Additionally, corn has been shown to have specialized plant fibers that help the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut.  Seeing what looks like undigested bits of corn in baby’s poop? This is normal, and baby is still getting valuable nutrition from the corn. The outer shell of corn is made from an insoluble fiber called cellulose, which is difficult to digest. When corn is seen in the stool, it is most often just this outer shell, as the inner contents are much easier to digest. Pooping patterns can vary significantly from child to child so  talk to your pediatric healthcare provider if you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function.