Quince

Yes, as most varieties are very firm when raw. To minimize the risk, remove the seeds and cook quince until soft. While the skin is edible and does not pose a high choking risk, it can be tough and challenging to chew, so remove it if baby is struggling. 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, quince is not a common allergen, although allergies to quince have been reported. While information about quince is limited, individuals sensitive to other fruits in the Rosaceae family, such as apples, apricots, almonds, and plums, may have a similar reaction to quince. Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) to other Rosaceae fruits, particularly those who are allergic to birch pollen, could theoretically be sensitive to quince. 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 peeling the fruit can minimize the reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity on its own for the first few servings and watch closely as your baby eats. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the serving size over time.

Yes. Particularly rich in vitamin B6 and zinc, quince helps support heart health, cognitive function, and healthy growth and development. Quince also supplies small amounts of other nutrients, from iron and potassium to carotenoids and polyphenols that benefit the gut and liver. It is a great source of fiber, particularly pectin, which supports digestive function. Lastly, quince is rich in potent antioxidants, which may reduce inflammation and protect against disease.

Note that quince seeds contain a compound that can turn into harmful amounts of cyanide in the body when consumed in large quantities. While the seeds are used medicinally in some cultures, to err on the side of caution, remove all of the seeds before serving quince to babies.

Quince paste, jam, and jelly may be more widely available than the fresh fruit, but these products tend to contain added sugar, which is not recommended until closer to age 2 (although a taste here and there is fine).

Yes. Quince is a good source of fluid and fiber, particularly pectin, which helps the gut microbiome thrive, soften stools, and supports digestion. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, check out our page on knowing when to worry about baby’s poop and, as always, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.

Known and loved by ancient cultures throughout Europe and Southwest Asia, the sweetly fragrant quince is a relative of the apple that originated in the lands between the Black and Caspian Seas. While there are many varieties, most are astringent and firm when raw, but become soft and sweet when cooked. Before the advent of refrigeration and modern food storage, ancient civilizations preserved quince by storing the fruits in honey until they became soft. Today, the tradition of eating quince in preserves continues in the form of jams, jellies, and pastes made with the fruit, and they are also popular as a sweet compliment to savory dishes like meat stews and tagines.