Pepino Melon

Pepino melon may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. 

Pepino melon, also known as pepino dulce or melon pear, is a fruit native to the Andes of South America, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years by indigenous peoples. Its name comes from the Spanish word for cucumber, pepino, a nod to its similar flavor, though it is more closely related to tomatoes and eggplant. A ripe pepino melon has smooth, pale yellow skin with distinctive purple streaks, and its flesh is juicy and subtly sweet, often described as a cross between honeydew, cucumber, and a very ripe pear.

• Ripen pepino melon at room temperature. Most pepino melons are sold underripe. Leave at room temperature until the skin turns yellow, the fruit becomes fragrant, and the flesh gives slightly when pressed. Once ripe, refrigerate and use within a few days.

• If the fruit is too slippery for baby, try rolling it in a food like finely shredded coconut, dry infant cereal, or finely ground seeds to make it easier to hold.

Yes. Pepino melon can be firm and slippery, qualities that can increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve pepino melon in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals.

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

No. Pepino melon is not a common allergen, although allergies have been reported. Individuals with oral allergy syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), especially those with known sensitivity to grass or ragweed pollen, may develop symptoms after eating the fruit. Oral allergy syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Peeling the fruit helps to minimize the reaction.

The juice of pepino melon may cause a harmless rash around the mouth while a child eats, or may cause or worsen diaper rash.^[1] Try applying a thin layer of barrier ointment (such as pure petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil/wax balm) to the child’s face and diaper area before mealtime to help prevent contact rashes.

Yes. Pepino melon is packed with antioxidants, phenols, and flavonoids to support bodily resilience. It also offers key nutrients such as vitamin C to support the immune system and boost iron absorption, fiber for healthy digestion and the gut microbiome, and vitamin A for visual and skin health.^{[2] [3] [4]}

When ripe, pepino melon has yellow or golden skin with purple streaks, a sweet, fragrant aroma at the stem end, and flesh that gives slightly when gently pressed, similar to a ripe peach or pear. Avoid fruit that is still mostly green, has no fragrance, or feels very firm. Pepino melons purchased at the store are often slightly underripe, but they will ripen if left at room temperature for a few days.