Mustard Greens

No. Mustard greens present a low risk, however, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. Keep in mind that shredded mustard greens can also cause some gagging or coughing because the pieces may cling to baby’s tongue or the roof of their mouth. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an 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.

Learn the signs of choking and gagging and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

No. Mustard greens are not classified as a Global Priority Allergen by the World Organization. However, mustard greens may share allergenic proteins with mustard seed, which is a significant food allergen in certain regions of the world, particularly Canada and Europe (mustard is the 4th most common food allergen in France, for example). Mustard greens are a part of the cruciferous vegetable family and individuals who are allergic or sensitive to other cruciferous vegetables, such as kale and broccoli, could be sensitive to mustard greens as well.

Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), and in particular, those with sensitivities to mugwort pollen, may also be sensitive to cruciferous vegetables like mustard greens. 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 mustard greens can help minimize or even eliminate the reaction.

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. Mustard greens are rich in fiber and vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K. Together, these nutrients support healthy digestion, vision, immunity, metabolism, bone health, blood clotting, and much more. Plus, mustard greens also contain calcium, compounds like lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants, and anti-cancer compounds like glucosinolates. 

 ★ Tip: Mustard greens are rich in vitamin K, which can interact with certain medications. If baby is taking medications and mustard greens are served regularly in your household, consult the child’s healthcare provider to address any concerns.

No. You may have heard that mustard greens and other vegetables (like arugula, beets, carrots, lettuce, spinach, and squash, to name a few) contain nitrates, naturally-occurring compounds which, if consumed in large amounts, may negatively affect oxygen levels in the blood. Babies—particularly babies younger than 3 months of age and/or those with health concerns—may be more susceptible to the effects of nitrates. Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the European Food Safety Authority view nitrates in vegetables as generally not a concern for most healthy children and that the benefits of eating vegetables as part of a varied diet typically outweighs the risks of excess nitrate exposure from consuming certain vegetables.

★ Tip: To further reduce the risk of illness from nitrates, serve homemade mustard green puree immediately and do not share leftovers that have been stored in the refrigerator for more than a day or two with baby, as nitrates can increase with improper storage.