Mustard

Consider waiting to introduce mustard as a condiment until 12 months of age, as it tends to be high in sodium and, in some cases, contains added sweeteners. That said, an occasional taste before the first birthday is fine, as long as the condiment does not contain honey, which is associated with a risk of infant botulism.

Mustard is a condiment with a spicy kick made from the seeds of the mustard plant. The seeds are ground up to form a paste that is typically seasoned with acids like vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and honey or another sweetener. The mustard plant has long grown worldwide, so many regions have their own beloved take on the condiment, from the spicy karashi mustard of Japan to the sweet fruit mustards of Italy.

Not particularly, as the condiment tends to be high in sodium, although an occasional taste of honey-free mustard before the first birthday is fine. Sodium is essential for healthy bodily functions, but should be minimized during the first year of life, and honey is associated with a higher risk of infant botulism for babies under 12 months of age.

Nutritionally, mustard as a condiment is not usually eaten in large quantities, but it does offer a touch of fiber and antioxidants, as well as glucosinolates, which are unique plant compounds that offer anti-cancer properties.

When shopping for mustard to share with toddlers, look for lower-sodium varieties with no or minimal added sweeteners. Reducing exposure to sodium can help prime a child’s palate for a wider variety of foods, increase the nutrient density of the diet, and live an overall healthier lifestyle.

★Tip: Some varieties of mustard are spicier than others. When offering mustard as a condiment to a child for the first time, make sure to taste it yourself first, as some types can be very spicy.

No, mustard is not a common choking hazard, although the foods it is served with could pose a risk. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No. Mustard is not classified as a common allergen in the United States. However, mustard is on the list of common allergens in Canada, Europe, and the Gulf States.

Mustard as a condiment may contain sulfites, and while sulfites are not a common allergen, certain individuals, particularly those with asthma, may have allergy-like reactions to added sulfites.  If sulfites are a concern, avoid ingredients such as sulfur dioxide, potassium bisulfate, potassium metabisulfite, sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, and sodium sulfite, to name a few.

Because mustard is considered a common allergen in some regions, it’s best to start small. Serve a scant amount (such as an 1/8 of a teaspoon of the condiment) during the first few meals and watch closely, as reactions don’t always occur at first. If there is no adverse reaction after several meals, gradually increase the quantity of the serving in future meals.

Note that mustard as a condiment is commonly made with vinegar, and acidic foods can cause a harmless rash on skin that comes into contact with the juices and sometimes contribute to diaper rash. Try 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 to help minimize contact rashes.

Yes. Whole seeds are a great way to season cooked vegetables, pickles, sauces, and more as soon as babies are developmentally ready to start solids. You can also use mustard oil and powdered or ground-up mustard seed to season food to share with baby. Just avoid offering loose, whole mustard seeds on their own as they pose a higher risk of aspiration (when food makes its way into the airway but doesn’t block it). While mustard seed is used medicinally in certain parts of the world, there is limited research regarding the medicinal use of mustard seed, so the use of mustard supplements and oils for babies should be avoided.

No. While mustard contains small amounts of fluid and fiber, mustard is not typically consumed in amounts that would significantly impact baby’s pooping patterns. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.