Nectarine

Nectarines may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age, as long as the fruit is very soft and ripe or cooked until soft.

Nectarines and peaches share nearly all of the same genetic make-up, with one exception. While peaches grow a fuzzy skin, the skin of a nectarine is smooth and glossy. Sometimes a nectarine will even grow on a tree full of peaches, and vice versa. Both peach and nectarine were first cultivated in East Asia thousands of years ago.

Yes. Nectarines offer carbohydrates, fiber, and fluid, in addition to potassium and vitamins A, C, E, and K. Together, these nutrients help provide energy to fuel crawling and exploration, support the digestive system, and keep baby hydrated. They also help to support electrolyte balance, skin health, vision, iron absorption, immune function, and blood clotting. Nectarines are among the fruits that are particularly helpful for babies struggling with constipation.

No. Allergies to nectarines are uncommon. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen-food allergy syndrome), and particularly those with sensitivities to birch tree and/or certain grass pollens, may be sensitive to nectarines. Individuals sensitive to other foods of the Rosaceae family, such as apricots, almonds, peaches, and plums may also have a similar experience with nectarines. 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, canning, or peeling nectarines can help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity on its own for the first few servings. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.

Yes. Nectarines, especially when underripe, are slippery and can be firm, qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve nectarines in an age-appropriate way. 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.

Wait to serve nectarine juice as a drink until after 12 months of age. Note that it can be beneficial to wait until a child is older 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. However, occasional, small servings of juice after one year of age generally isn’t a cause for concern. Learn more about serving juice to babies and toddlers.