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Learn moreRadish
Vegetable
Age Suggestion
6 months
Iron-Rich
No
Common Allergen
No
When can babies have radishes?
Radish may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old.
Radishes grow worldwide in myriad colors, shapes, and sizes. While the vegetable’s origin remains a mystery, studies suggest the plant may have first sprouted in Asia, where wild radishes can still be foraged and cultivated varieties are part of everyday cooking. Across the continent, one popular variety is the daikon radish (also called mooli), which is used in breads like luóbo gāo and paratha, pickles like do chua and takuan, and stews like mullangi sambar and sinigang. Other common types worldwide include the snowy white mu radish used in kimchi, the two-toned breakfast radish paired with bread and butter, and colorful globe-shaped radishes that adorn tacos. Like kohlrabi, turnip, and other brassicas, all parts of the radish plant are edible, including its nutrient-rich greens.
How do you serve radishes to babies?
Every baby develops on their own timeline, and the suggestions on how to cut or prepare particular foods are generalizations for a broad audience.
6 months old +:
Cook the radish until it is very soft and pierceable with a fork, then mash and serve in a bowl for baby to scoop with their hands. If you have a very large variety of radish, you can serve in large slices or wedges that have been cooked until very soft for baby to munch on–just make sure the piece of food is bigger than baby’s mouth so that it is easier for them to pick up and practice taking bites from.
9 months old +:
At this age, babies develop the pincer grasp (where the thumb and forefinger meet), which enables them to pick up smaller pieces of food. When you see signs of this development, try moving down in size by offering quartered or thin slices of cooked, soft radish. At this age, you can also serve small amounts of grated raw radish to expose baby to its big flavor.
12 months old +:
Offer thinly sliced or grated raw radish, or continue to offer bite-sized pieces of cooked radish and try serving alongside a fork or spoon to encourage utensil practice. If the child is not interested in using a utensil, don’t worry: using utensils can be exhausting for new eaters, and many children toggle back and forth between feeding themselves with their fingers and utensils. Consistent and accurate utensil use will come in due time, typically sometime after the second birthday.
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Are radishes a choking hazard for babies?
Yes. Raw radish is very firm and crunchy, qualities that pose an increased choking risk for babies and young children. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve radish 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.
Are radishes a common allergen?
No. Allergies to radishes are uncommon, but have been reported. Radishes are part of the cruciferous vegetable family and individuals who are allergic or sensitive to other members of this plant family, such as mustard greens and broccoli, could theoretically be sensitive to radishes as well.
Individuals with Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome), and in particular those with sensitivities to mugwort pollen, may also be sensitive to cruciferous vegetables like radishes. 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 radishes can help minimize the reaction.
Are radishes healthy for babies?
Yes. Radishes offer fiber, fluid, calcium, and potassium, in addition to vitamins B6 and C. Plus, they offer a variety of antioxidants. In tandem, these nutrients work to support baby’s gut microbiome, hydration, bone health, electrolyte balance, metabolic processes, iron absorption, immunity, and more. Plus, they’re rich in antioxidants to help support bodily repair processes. Fermented forms of radish also provide probiotics to further support a thriving digestive system for baby.
Are radishes too spicy for babies?
No. Babies can have big flavors, even as soon as they start solids. Raw red radishes have a peppery, mildly sharp taste and when cooked, they lose most of their sharpness and become considerably milder and slightly sweet. If you are offering raw radish for the first time, start with a very small amount and watch baby's reaction. A temporary expression of surprise is normal and not a reason to stop. Babies often need repeated exposure to a new flavor before accepting it readily.
Can babies eat radish leaves?
Yes. Radish greens—the leafy tops attached to the radish root—are edible and nutritious, with a slightly bitter flavor similar to arugula. Radish greens can be offered to babies from 6 months when cooked. Finely chop the greens, then sauté them in a little butter or oil, add them to soups or stir-fries, or wilt them into grain porridge. When buying radishes with their tops attached, use the greens within 1–2 days, as they wilt quickly.
Our Team
Written by
Dr. Rachel Ruiz
Pediatrician & pediatric gastroenterologist
Dr. Sakina Bajowala
Pediatrician & pediatric allergist/immunologist
Kim Grenawitzke
Pediatric occupational therapist, feeding & swallowing specialist, international board-certified lactation consultant
Venus Kalami
Pediatric registered dietitian & nutritionist
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