Peas (Garden)

Yes. Peas are small, round, and sometimes firm, qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve peas 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.

No. Peas are not a common allergen, although the prevalence of allergies to peas has been increasingly reported over the years with the rise in popularity of pea products and many hidden sources of peas, such as in processed plant-based foods. Emerging research also suggests that certain individuals with favism, also known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, may have their condition triggered by peas.

Pea allergies have been reported in some patients with allergies to other legumes, particularly chickpeas and lentils. However, being allergic to one type of legume does not necessarily mean that an individual will be allergic to all others, although the risk of having more than one legume allergy can increase. Fortunately, most individuals with peanut or soy allergy (both common food allergens) are able to tolerate other legumes, such as peas, just fine. That said, there are reports of patients with peanut allergy experiencing reactions to processed food products containing large amounts of concentrated pea protein (known as pea protein isolate)– even if they tolerate whole peas without issue. If baby has a known peanut allergy, foods containing pea protein isolate should be introduced with caution.

Peas and other pea products are a known trigger of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, also known as FPIES. FPIES is a rare and delayed allergy to food protein which causes the sudden onset of repetitive vomiting and diarrhea to begin a few hours after ingestion of the food trigger. Left untreated, the reaction can result in significant dehydration. Fortunately, most cases resolve completely by early childhood.

Individuals with allergies to birch tree pollen and/or Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) may be sensitive to legumes, such as peas. 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 or canning peas can help minimize and 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. Peas are an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, and protein to provide energy to play and explore, support baby’s gut microbiome, and fuel growth and development. They are also high in folate, vitamin B6, and zinc which collectively support neurodevelopment, healthy metabolism, immune function, and taste perception. Lastly, peas are rich in antioxidants, which help support the body’s resilience against stressors.

Yes, but only after they have been cooked and modified to reduce choking risk (mashed or flattened, depending on baby’s age and eating ability). Peas that are still frozen and hard are a potential choking hazard and pose a risk of foodborne illness.

Yes. Canned peas are a widely available, shelf-stable option. Consider opting for canned peas with minimal or no added salt, if available, since baby’s sodium needs are low at this age. If not available, know that regular canned peas are fine as part of a varied diet.

No. Peas contain fiber and other food components that produce gas, which is sometimes mistakenly perceived as peas being hard to digest. Certain elements of peas are naturally resistant to digestion, but these indigestible fibers help feed friendly gut bacteria and support baby’s development of a diverse and healthy microbiome. Introducing high-fiber foods like peas gradually and regularly in baby’s diet as tolerated can help to minimize digestive discomfort.

Yes, as an ingredient in solid food, but wait until after the first birthday to regularly offer pea protein milk as a drink so it does not displace breast milk or formula, which offer important nutrition that baby needs to grow and thrive.