Star fruit (carambola) may be introduced in moderation as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. If your child has kidney disease, you may want to avoid star fruit as studies have found that consuming large quantities can be toxic for adults with conditions that impact the kidney.

Native to Southeast Asia, star fruit grow on trees in tropical climates around the world, where it goes by different names—balimbing, fuang, kamaranga, kamrakh, or ma fen to name a few. The fruit’s anglicized name hints at a common preparation: when cut crosswise, the slices resemble stars—a delightful shape to stimulate the senses of babies, toddlers, and adults alike. Ripe star fruit is sweet and slightly tart, like a cross between a green grape and an almost-ripe pear. Unripe star fruits are more acidic and a little sour, like a green apple. Star fruit is often harvested shortly after it ripens when its green skin has started to fade to golden yellow or sunny orange, depending on the variety—some of which are sweeter than others. The fruit can be eaten raw or cooked in savory or sweet preparations, from fresh chutneys and preserved pickles, to fish soups and vegetable stews, to iced drinks or simple salads of sliced star fruit dusted with salt and spice.

Yes—when served in moderation. Star fruit offers plenty of fiber for gut health, plus it is relatively low in natural sugar. It also contains lots of vitamin C to help baby’s body absorb iron, an important nutrient that is often low in a child’s diet, from plant-based foods.

Note that star fruit can contain a large amount of oxalic acid, a compound found in plants that can bind to minerals in the body. For most people, oxalates are not an issue, and in fact, the body naturally produces its own oxalates. However, some studies show that the presence of unusually high oxalate levels and other toxic compounds within star fruit can be toxic for adults when consumed in excess, particularly in individuals with existing kidney conditions. If your child has a condition that impacts the kidney, or if you have any concerns or questions on this matter, talk to your child’s health care provider for guidance.

Concerned about the oxalates? Sweet star fruit contains significantly less oxalates and is typically larger, while sour star fruit contains more oxalate and is smaller in size.

★Tip: Like grapefruit, star fruit can interact with certain medications. If your child is taking medications, talk to your child’s health care provider before introducing star fruit.

No, but the seeds can be. While the entire fruit is edible (including the waxy skin), remove the seeds before serving. As always, make sure to create a safe eating environment, stay within an arm’s reach of your baby during meals, and check out our age-appropriate serving suggestions.

For more information, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with common choking hazards.

No. Star fruit is not a common allergen, though, in theory, one can be allergic to any food.

Although not commonly reported, some people may experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (also called pollen food allergy syndrome) when eating star fruit. Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction.

As you would when introducing any new food, start by offering a small quantity for the first few times. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future meals.