Peach

Peaches, if ripe and soft, may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Peaches originated in East Asia, where the fruit trees have influenced art, literature, medicine, and spirituality for thousands of years. Today the juicy fruits are farmed in temperate climates around the world. Peaches often represent the peak of summer along with cherries, plums, and nectarines—the smooth-skinned sibling of the fuzzy peach. When the weather is hot, there are hundreds of varieties to try, from flat peaches with rosy skin and yellow flesh, to perfectly round golden peaches with cream-colored flesh. The taste varies, too; some are tart, others are tangy, and many are sweet.

Yes. Peaches offer fiber to support the gut microbiome and digestive health, plus they contain good amounts of vitamin E, as well as vitamin A and vitamin C to promote immune health. Peach skin in particular is high in antioxidants—beneficial compounds that combat bodily stress and keep us healthy. Washing the fruit can help reduce pesticide residues while also getting rid of unfriendly germs.

Can’t get fresh peaches? Canned and frozen peaches are great options, too. While canned peaches are often preserved in syrups, when possible, look for canned peaches that are free from added sugar, such as those preserved in water.

They can be, especially when underripe. Peaches are slippery and can be firm, qualities that can increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, only serve very ripe, soft peaches. Note that peach skin, while not a common choking hazard, can stick to the roof of the mouth or baby’s tongue and cause some gagging or discomfort. 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.

No. Allergies to peaches 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 peaches. Individuals sensitive to other fruits of the Rosaceae family, such as apricots, almonds, nectarines, and plums, may also have a similar experience with peaches.

Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooked, canned, or peeled peaches 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.

No. Juice of any kind should not be given to babies under 12 months of age, unless directed to do so by a health provider in very specific circumstances. While small amounts of fruit juice (less than 4 oz a day, ideally diluted with water) may be offered after a child’s first birthday, it is our professional opinion to wait to serve any kind of juice until age two, and even then, to limit the frequency and amount offered to minimize sugar (including natural sugar) in a child’s diet. Regular and excessive consumption of sweet beverages may reduce the diversity of foods and nutrients consumed and may increase the risk of dental cavities, diabetes, and heart disease. Plus, fruits in their whole form are more nutritious than the juice.

Yes. Peaches are rich in fiber and fluid that help feed healthy gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines to support healthy digestion and bowel movements. In particular, peaches (along with pears, prunes, plums, and others) contain sorbitol, a food component that promotes bowel movements.

Certain high-fiber foods can produce gas and, at times, diaper blowouts; while this is normal and expected, it can be uncomfortable for baby. To minimize digestive discomfort, introduce high-fiber foods like peaches gradually and regularly in baby’s diet as tolerated. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about your baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.