Lemons can be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old. Lemons are acidic, so start slow as acidic foods can be hard on little tummies and can also cause or worsen diaper rash.

When served in limited amount, yes—lemon can be healthy for your baby. Lemons contain vitamin C, which helps our bodies absorb iron from plants and boosts our immune systems. Because lemon is very acidic, it is hard on the developing digestive tracts of babies, so introduce the ingredient in a small amount. Try sprinkling a few drops of lemon juice on your baby’s food, or mixing it into a mashed vegetable. The juice will enhance the dish and introduce sour flavor—an important taste for little ones to explore as they develop their palettes.

Note: Lemons tend to be sprayed heavily with pesticides, so aim to purchase organic lemons to decrease exposure to toxins.

Lemon seeds are a choking hazard and should always be removed prior to serving. The membrane in all citrus fruit is also a choking risk (for example, when a citrus fruit’s sections are served whole such as an orange section still in the membrane). While it’s unlikely you’ll be serving sectioned lemons, always remove the membrane and seeds of citrus fruits before serving.

For more information, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with common choking hazards.

No. Lemon allergies are possible, though quite rare. That said, it is quite common for acidic juice to cause a red rash around a baby’s mouth during and/or after eating. Sometimes this is merely a skin reaction to the acidity (and not necessarily an indication of a food allergy) but if you are concerned, consult your pediatrician.