Dill

No. Dill 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 dill 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.

No. Allergies to dill are not common, but rare cases have been reported, some of which were severe.^{1 2}

Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), particularly those who are allergic to birch or mugwort pollen and/or sensitive to foods within the Apiaceae family (such as carrot, celery, coriander, cumin, and fennel), may also be sensitive to dill as it is part of the Apiaceae family.^{3 45 6} 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 dill may help minimize the reaction.^{7 8}

Dill has also been associated with contact rashes from household and occupational exposure, along with phytophotodermatitis (a hyperpigmented, occasionally blistering rash that develops on skin exposed to both the plant allergen and UV light).^{9 10 11} If baby has sensitive skin and a tendency to develop contact rashes, be sure to wash the child’s hands and face after prolonged contact with dill.

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, dill is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking.¹² Dill essential oils should be avoided for babies, as research on their use and safety in babies and young children is limited.

Yes. Dill offers small amounts of a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, including a dash of vitamin C. It also contains a number plant compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which may offer digestion-supporting, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.¹³

While a high chair can help create a safe eating environment, there are alternative ways for baby to eat safely, such as holding the child on your lap or sitting together on the floor. For more information, see our article on high chairs.

Baby should be able to sit with minimal support, hold their head up well, and be able to reach and grab an item and successfully bring it to their mouth while seated. Baby should also show interest in eating and watching caregivers eat. For example of babies who are ready vs not, see our article on readiness.