Cumin

Cumin may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Do not offer cumin oil to babies and young children, as its use has been associated with gastric upset and its safety has not been sufficiently studied.

Cumin is the dried seed of an herb that originated in the fertile lands around the Mediterranean Sea, where it has been used in food and medicine since ancient times. Colonization, migration, and trade introduced cumin far beyond its native region, and today the spice is a staple seasoning around the globe. Also widely known as jeera, cumin lends earthy, warm flavor to myriad foods, included breads, cheeses, masalas, and spice blends like berbere, duqqa, garam masala, panch phoron, sazon, more.

Yes, cumin is is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking. Do not offer cumin oil to babies and young children, as its use has been associated with gastric upset and its safety has not been sufficiently studied.

Yes. Cumin offers small amounts of various vitamins, minerals like iron and calcium, and fiber. Research suggests that cumin also offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties and may help support digestive processes.

Do not offer cumin oil to babies and young children, as its use has been associated with gastric upset and its safety has not been sufficiently studied.

No. Allergies to cumin are rare, but have been reported. Note that certain spice blends that feature cumin may contain common food allergens, so make sure to read labels thoroughly.

Cumin is in the same botanical family as dill, celery, coriander, and parsley. Individuals with a known allergy to one or more of these foods may also be sensitive to cumin.

Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome, particularly those who are allergic to birch pollen, may be sensitive to cumin. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction.

Note that powdered spices can cause reactions similar to allergic symptoms. For example, inhaling a puff of powdered cumin can irritate the nasal passageways and trigger sneezing and coughing, and this response may not be an allergic reaction.

Food with spices like cumin may cause a harmless rash around the mouth while baby eats or may cause or worsen diaper rash. Applying a thin layer of barrier ointment (such as pure petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil/wax balm) to baby’s face and bottom can 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.

No. Both whole cumin seeds and ground cumin present 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 cumin in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. Note that loose, dry cumin seeds are more likely to scatter in the mouth, which can cause gagging or coughing. Consider serving cumin seeds as part of a sauce or mixed dish to make them easier to manage in the mouth. 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.

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.

Knowledge and practice with rescue maneuvers. Parents and caregivers who watch the choking and rescue videos in our Starting Solids bundle often share how confident they feel.