Raisins

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

Raisins are grapes dried in the sun or in commercial dehydrators. While many types of grapes grow in warm temperate regions worldwide, most raisins are made from just a handful of varieties of seedless green or red grapes that range in size. Some are quite large and used to make sultanas, another name for raisins. Others are tiny and used to make small raisins like zante currants.

Yes. Raisins are rich in carbohydrates and fiber, with a variety of nutrients such as iron, calcium, potassium and vitamin B6. Together, these nutrients work to provide energy, support the digestive system, promote healthy red blood cells, build up bone density, support electrolyte balance and healthy metabolism, and more.

When grapes are dried into raisins, they lose water content, and as a result, the natural fruit sugars become concentrated. Natural sugar in both fresh fruit and dried fruit is not a concern in a balanced diet.

★Tip: Raisins last longer when kept at a cool temperature. Store them in the refrigerator or a cool, dry pantry to extend their shelf life.

No—allergies to raisins are rare. However, raisins and dried fruit tend to be high in histamines, which can worsen allergic reactions and upper respiratory conditions. As with any new food, introduce a small quantity at first and watch closely as baby eats. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity in following servings.

Yes. Dried fruit can be firm and difficult to chew, qualities that increase the risk of choking. To reduce the risk, prepare and serve raisins 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.

When first getting started, offer a small amount and trust that baby knows how to show interest in wanting more by grunting, pointing, or reaching out. Keep in mind that most babies between 6 and 9 months of age do not consume much solid food at first. For babies between 10 and 12 months of age, work toward what a balanced adult meal would look like, just with smaller portions than what you might have. Follow the child’s lead: when baby indicates “more”, offer more food. When baby shows signs that they are finished, stop offering food.

Knowledge and practice with rescue maneuvers. Parents and caregivers who watch the choking and rescue videos in our Starting Solids bundle often share how confident they feel.