Scrambled, poached, fried, or served in an omelette; there are so many delicious ways to eat and enjoy eggs! But you’ve heard they’re pretty high on the list of allergenic foods, so is it safe for your baby to try them?

When is it safe to feed my baby eggs?

Once your baby is ready to begin eating solid foods – generally around the 6-month mark – you can introduce them to fully-cooked eggs for the first time, and it’s actually a great idea to do so because they’re packed full of important nutrients.

So what are these all-important nutrients that eggs offer up?

What are the benefits of introducing my baby to eggs?

Protein. Eggs are a fantastic source of protein, which will help your baby’s bones and muscles grow nice and strong. An egg typically provides around 12 grams of protein, which more than meets a tiny tot’s daily protein needs.

Choline. Choline plays an essential role in brain and memory development, and a choline deficiency can cause liver problems. So, as a choline source, eggs can be absolutely added to the menu.

Iron. Babies need a lot of iron to support their neurological development and to help their red blood cells carry oxygen around the body.

But is there anything I need to be aware of when introducing my baby to eggs?

Egg allergy. Eggs are relatively high on the allergen list, so while they can be introduced fairly early on, they shouldn’t be one of the first foods you expose your baby to. However, once you do introduce them, do so without exposing anything else that’s new to their diet for 3 to 5 days. Give them a very small amount to begin with, and keep a close eye on your baby for at least 10 minutes before continuing. If your baby shows any signs of an allergy (rashes, swelling, itchy and runny nose or eyes), hold off on the egg for now and call your doctor immediately. If they appear to be sweating profusely, are struggling to breathe, show signs of dizziness or fainting, or have a rapid pulse, call an ambulance or take them to the nearest hospital.

Constipation. Eggs aren’t very high in fibre, so they have been known to cause constipation. However, if eggs are served alongside high-fibre foods, such as fruit and veg, and breast milk or formula, your baby should be fine.

Eggs must be fully cooked. Babies can only eat eggs that have been fully cooked so as to avoid the risks of salmonella (a bacteria that can be especially harmful to babies). This means poached or over-easy eggs aren’t an option, and hard-boiled eggs must not have a runny yolk. Scrambling or fully hard-boiling eggs are both safe options, as is an omelette that’s been sliced into small, manageable pieces.

When can my baby eat eggs?

Unii answers this important nutritional question.