Hemp Seed

Hemp seeds, also called hemp hearts, may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old. 

For thousands of years, humans have cultivated the hemp plant as not only a source of food, but as a fiber to make clothing, paper, and rope. The hull (the seed’s crunchy shell) is often removed before sale to reveal the soft white inner seed, or the hemp heart, from which oil can be extracted.

Yes. While hemp is part of the same plant family as marijuana, its seeds do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana. Hemp seeds may pick up trace amounts of THC during harvesting or processing, but in order to be sold as food, the seeds are carefully tested to ensure they are safe for public consumption.

Yes. Hemp seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and fat, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They are also rich in folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B6, and zinc, plus some calcium. These nutrients work together to provide energy to support baby’s growth and exploration, as well as the gut microbiome. They also support brain development, red blood cells, electrolyte balance, metabolic processes, immune function, taste perception, bone density, and more.

No. Hemp seeds are not a common allergen.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by serving a small quantity of hemp seeds for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the amount over future meals.

No. Hemp seeds 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 hemp seeds in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. Note that loose, dry hemp seeds are more likely to scatter in the mouth, which can cause gagging or coughing. Consider stirring the seeds into applesauce, yogurt, baked goods, or other dishes to help the seeds stay together. 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. Prior to 12 months, the only liquids an infant should receive are breast milk, infant formula, and if the baby is older than 6 months of age, water in small amounts (about 2-4 ounces or 60-120 milliliters a day) in an open cup. For babies 6 months and up, hemp milk used as an ingredient in solid food is totally fine. 

If, after the first birthday, you’d like to introduce hemp milk as a beverage, it’s fine to do so, but know that hemp milk is not the most nutritious plant-based milk for toddlers; typically, fortified soy or pea milk contain more key nutrients. See our Milk FAQs to learn more.