Can babies have mayonnaise?

Yes, babies can have mayonnaise, with a few important considerations.

Mayonnaise made with pasteurized eggs can be introduced to a baby's diet once they are ready to start eating solid foods, which is generally around 6 months of age. The primary concern is to ensure the mayonnaise is safe and doesn't contain ingredients harmful to infants.

Key Considerations for Giving Mayonnaise to Babies:

• Age Appropriateness: Starting solids typically occurs around 6 months. Consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new foods.

• Pasteurized Eggs: Ensure that the mayonnaise is made with pasteurized eggs. This reduces the risk of salmonella, a common concern with raw or undercooked eggs.

• Honey Avoidance: Never give mayonnaise containing honey to babies under 12 months old. Honey can contain spores of Clostridium botulinum, which can cause infant botulism.

  • Why is honey dangerous for babies?:
    • Babies' digestive systems are not mature enough to handle these spores.
    • Infant botulism can be a serious and life-threatening condition.

• Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for any potential allergens or additives that could be harmful to your baby.

• Homemade vs. Store-Bought:

  • Store-bought mayonnaise: Often contains preservatives.
  • Homemade mayonnaise: May use raw eggs if not carefully prepared. If making it at home, use only pasteurized eggs.
  • Read Labels Carefully: Always check the labels to see if it is made with pasteurized eggs or contains any harmful ingredients for babies.

Practical Insights:

• Start Small: Introduce mayonnaise in small quantities initially to observe for any allergic reactions or digestive issues.

• Mix it Up: Combine mayonnaise with other safe and healthy foods like cooked vegetables or shredded chicken to make it more appealing.

Example:

• Mix a small amount of pasteurized-egg mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a creamy and nutritious dip.
• Add a tiny amount to shredded, cooked chicken to create a simple sandwich filling (bread for babies should be carefully considered).

By following these guidelines, mayonnaise can be safely introduced into a baby's diet after 6 months of age, provided it's made with pasteurized eggs and free from honey.