Kiwi

Kiwi may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Kiwi originated in East Asia, where it is called kei ji gwo and míhóutáo, among other names. Kiwis are now grown commercially across the globe, including in New Zealand, where the crop has been successful and widespread. In fact, the fruit was known as gooseberry until entrepreneurial New Zealanders rebranded it with the name of the fuzzy, brown-skinned kiwi bird living all over their islands.

Yes. Kiwis offer carbohydrates, fiber, and water, in addition to calcium, folate, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins B6, C, and K. Together, these nutrients help provide energy to support baby’s movement and exploration, developing gut microbiome, and hydration. They also help to support bone density, brain development, electrolyte balance, metabolic processes, skin health, iron absorption, immune function, and blood clotting. Lastly, kiwi is loaded with phytonutrients and enzymes that are anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-cancerous, and that support heart and digestive health.

★Tip: Kiwi lasts up to a week in the fridge and is best stored away from other fruit. The natural ripening compounds in other fruits, such as bananas, can speed up kiwi’s ripening, shortening its shelf life.

No. While kiwi is not considered to be a common food allergen, allergies to kiwi are being increasingly reported, with reactions ranging from mild to severe. Additionally, some individuals may be sensitive to actinidin, an enzyme that is naturally present in kiwi, and can also be used as a meat tenderizer in other foods.

Individuals with latex-fruit syndrome (including avocado, banana, and chestnut) may be allergic to kiwi as well. Kiwi has multiple protein allergens that have been identified, many of which cross-react with other food allergens, such as peanut, tree nuts, and stone fruits. However, it is rare for an individual to be sensitized to all the possible kiwi allergens, and most people with kiwi allergies can safely consume these other foods. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome due to birch or beech pollen allergy (also known as pollen food allergy) may also be sensitive to kiwi. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, burning, or tingling in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Peeling or cooking kiwi can help minimize the reaction.

Acidic foods like kiwi are often mistaken for allergens as they can cause a harmless rash around the mouth as baby eats and can cause or worsen diaper rashes. Barrier ointments can be applied to the face before mealtime to help protect the skin from acidic foods.

Kiwi does contain enzymes called proteases which can break down proteins in the mouth and cause irritation or bleeding if the kiwi is consumed when not fully ripe, or in excess. To limit these reactions, ensure that you only serve kiwi that is fully ripe, serve modest quantities at a time, and serve kiwi alongside other foods.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by serving a small quantity of kiwi on its own. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future servings.

Yes. The flesh of kiwis can be firm and slippery, two qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve kiwi in an age-appropriate way. As always, make sure to create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of a baby during mealtime. For more information, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with common choking hazards.

Yes, all varieties of kiwi skin are edible and are high in a number of beneficial nutrients (fiber, various antioxidants, and more).

Small amounts of kiwi juice may be shared as a drink after 12 months of age. That said, it can be beneficial to wait until after a child’s 2nd birthday to regularly share juice and other sugary drinks. Research suggests that regular intake of juice and other sweet drinks tends to increase the risk of dental cavities and take up space in the belly, which may decrease a child’s motivation to eat other foods at mealtime and may negatively affect the child’s growth over time. However, occasional servings of juice after one year of age generally isn’t a cause for concern. Learn more about serving juice to babies and toddlers.