Pineapple

Pineapple may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, generally around 6 months of age. Pineapple and other acidic foods may cause a harmless, temporary rash on skin that comes into contact with the juices and can contribute to diaper rash.

Pineapple has been cultivated for thousands of years in the land of its origin, the tropical lowlands of South America, including the area now known as Brazil. There, the Tupi people created diverse ways to turn the fruit they called na’na (among other names) into nourishing meals and fermented drinks. Colonization of Brazil and other parts of the American tropics introduced pineapple to Europe and beyond, although the fruit remained a luxury item in many temperate climates for hundreds of years.

Yes. Pineapple is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins B6 and C, folate, and fiber, as well as trace amounts of a variety of other vitamins and minerals. Together, these nutrients help support baby’s energy, metabolism, iron absorption, neurodevelopment, digestive health, and immune function. Pineapple also contains antioxidants and carotenoids, such as epicatechin. When serving pineapple, make sure that it is ripe, as unripe pineapple can be irritating to the digestive system.

Pineapple contains bromelain, a protein-digesting enzyme that can cause irritation in the mouth after eating lots of the fruit. While this may be uncomfortable, there is no cause for concern. Cooking pineapple helps prevent this sensation, and serving the fruit with a neutralizing food like coconut milk or yogurt can help lessen the feeling.

No. Allergies to pineapple are uncommon, but they have been reported and may be more likely in individuals with latex allergies. While most allergic reactions to pineapple are not severe, serious allergic reactions to bromelain, the major allergenic protein in pineapple, have also been reported. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome who are allergic to pollen and/or latex may be sensitive to pineapple. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Pineapple that is cooked or canned can help minimize the reaction. There have also been reports that treating pineapple with salt or consuming along with dairy products might minimize reactions.

The enzymes in pineapple, such as bromelain, can temporarily irritate the mouth and tongue, causing a tingling or burning sensation that can be difficult to distinguish from Oral Allergy Syndrome. Cooking pineapple can help reduce this irritation.

Sometimes the natural acidity of pineapple can cause a harmless rash upon contact with the skin, typically around the mouth, but also occasionally in the diaper area. The rash usually dissipates quickly without treatment. To prevent irritation, apply a barrier ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil-wax combination, to baby’s face and diaper area before a meal with pineapple.

If you suspect baby may be allergic to pineapple, consult an allergist. 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. Pineapple can be firm and slippery, which are two qualities that can increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve pineapple in an age-appropriate way as described in the How to Serve section. Note that pineapple has a mixed consistency—in other words, there are both solids and juice in a bite of pineapple, which move differently in baby’s mouth. This consistency may cause coughing as baby practices eating the food. 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.

Small amounts of pineapple juice may be shared as a drink after 12 months of age. That said, it can be beneficial to wait for when 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 servings of juice after one year of age generally isn’t a cause for concern.  Learn more about serving juice to babies and toddlers.