Beetroot is rich in folate, iron, and fibre — three nutrients that matter from 6 months when iron stores from birth begin to fall. It is also one of the few naturally sweet vegetables, which can help babies build positive associations with vegetables overall.
When babies can eat beetroot
Babies can eat fully cooked beetroot from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness for solids.
Like spinach and other leafy/root vegetables, beetroot contains naturally occurring nitrates. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics consider occasional servings of nitrate-rich vegetables safe from 6 months in healthy babies. Aim for 1–2 servings per week alongside other vegetables — not as the only daily vegetable.
Always cook beetroot until very soft and serve fresh on the day of cooking. Avoid leaving cooked beetroot puree at room temperature, which can convert nitrates into nitrites.
Don't be alarmed if your baby's stool or urine turns pink or red after eating beetroot — this is called beeturia, is completely harmless, and clears within 1–2 days.
See our first foods for baby guide for more ideas.
Nutritional benefits for babies
- 💚Folate (vitamin B9) supports the development of red blood cells and the nervous system.
- 💚Plant-based iron supports oxygen transport and cognitive development — pair with vitamin-C-rich foods like apple or citrus to boost absorption.
- 💚Dietary fibre supports healthy digestion and bowel regularity.
- 💚Manganese, potassium and antioxidants (betalains) support overall growth.
- 💚Naturally sweet — a great way to introduce vegetables to babies who lean toward fruits.
How to serve beetroot for babies
6–9 months (puree): Wrap a whole beetroot in foil and roast at 200°C / 400°F for 45–60 minutes until a knife slides in easily. Cool, peel (the skin slips off), then blend with a splash of breast milk, formula, or cooking water. Combine with apple or pear to soften the earthy flavour.
6–9 months (BLW): Peel and cut roasted beetroot into chunky baby-finger-sized strips. The flesh should yield easily between your fingers — never offer raw or undercooked beetroot.
9–12 months: Small cubes of soft roasted beetroot, beetroot-and-yogurt mash, beetroot folded into mild risotto or pasta.
12+ months: Beet hummus (cooked beet + chickpea + tahini), beet fritters with grated apple, beet-and-feta family dish (omit added salt for baby's portion).
How to cut root vegetables for BLW
For safe shapes and sizes by age, see our detailed How to cut root vegetables for BLW guide.
Also check how to cut food for baby-led weaning for general BLW cutting tips.
Beetroot recipes for babies
See all beetroot recipes for babies. Explore baby breakfast recipes, baby-led weaning recipes and first foods for baby for more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can babies eat Beetroot?
Yes. Babies can eat Beetroot starting around 6 months when they begin solid foods. It should be served in a safe texture and size for babies.
When can babies eat Beetroot?
Babies can eat Beetroot from around 6 months when starting solids. Babies can eat fully cooked beetroot from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness for solids. Like spinach and other leafy/root vegetables, beetroot contains naturally occurring nitrates. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics consider occasional servings of nitrate-rich vegetables safe from 6 months in healthy babies. Aim for 1–2 servings per week alongside other vegetables — not as the only daily vegetable. Always cook beetroot until very soft and serve fresh on the day of cooking. Avoid leaving cooked beetroot puree at room temperature, which can convert nitrates into nitrites. Don't be alarmed if your baby's stool or urine turns pink or red after eating beetroot — this is called beeturia, is completely harmless, and clears within 1–2 days.
Is Beetroot a choking hazard for babies?
Beetroot can be a choking hazard if served in unsafe shapes. Always cook beetroot until very soft — raw or undercooked beetroot is too firm and is a choking risk. Cut into baby-finger-length strips or small mashable cubes; never thin coin-shaped slices. Limit fresh-cooked beetroot to 1–2 servings per week and serve same-day to minimise nitrite formation. Don't reheat leftover beetroot puree multiple times. Pink or red stools/urine (beeturia) after eating beetroot is normal and harmless — not a sign of bleeding. Beetroot can stain skin, clothing, and high-chair trays. A bib and easy-clean tray make life easier. Avoid pickled beets for babies under 12 months — they are high in salt and vinegar.
Is Beetroot a common allergen?
Beetroot is not typically a common allergen for babies. Many babies can try it from around 6 months as part of a varied diet.
How should Beetroot be served to babies?
6–9 months (puree): Wrap a whole beetroot in foil and roast at 200°C / 400°F for 45–60 minutes until a knife slides in easily. Cool, peel (the skin slips off), then blend with a splash of breast milk, formula, or cooking water. Combine with apple or pear to soften the earthy flavour. 6–9 months (BLW): Peel and cut roasted beetroot into chunky baby-finger-sized strips. The flesh should yield easily between your fingers — never offer raw or undercooked beetroot. 9–12 months: Small cubes of soft roasted beetroot, beetroot-and-yogurt mash, beetroot folded into mild risotto or pasta. 12+ months: Beet hummus (cooked beet + chickpea + tahini), beet fritters with grated apple, beet-and-feta family dish (omit added salt for baby's portion).
What nutrients does Beetroot provide for babies?
Beetroot provides nutrients like potassium, fibre, iron, folate that support babies' growth and development.
How long can I store Beetroot for babies?
Cook Beetroot to a safe temperature and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze in single-serving portions for up to 1 month to preserve nutrients.
Should I buy organic Beetroot for my baby?
Organic Beetroot isn't strictly necessary for babies, but some families prefer to reduce pesticide exposure. Wash conventional produce thoroughly. Variety and freshness matter most.
How should I introduce Beetroot for the first time?
Offer a small amount of Beetroot in an age-appropriate texture when your baby is hungry but not starving, ideally early in the day so you can watch for any reactions over several hours.
Is Beetroot a good finger food for babies?
Yes. Beetroot can be an excellent finger food for babies when cut into strips or soft pieces they can grasp. Make sure the texture mashes easily between your fingers.
What foods pair well with Beetroot for baby?
Beetroot pairs well with grains like rice, oats, or pasta, soft proteins like chicken or lentils, and healthy fats like olive oil or avocado.
Should I cook Beetroot before serving it to my baby?
Yes. Cook Beetroot until tender and easily mashable before serving it to your baby. Steaming, boiling, or roasting softens it enough to be safe.
How much Beetroot can a baby eat?
There's no fixed amount. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of Beetroot from around 6 months and let your baby regulate intake. Breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition in the first year.
Should I peel or remove the pit from Beetroot for my baby?
Yes. Before serving Beetroot to your baby, remove any inedible parts (skin, seeds, pit, or tough core) as recommended in the safety guide to reduce choking risk.
Can I mix Beetroot with baby cereal?
Yes. Mashing Beetroot and stirring it into baby cereal (oat, rice, or multigrain) is a simple way to add flavor, fiber, and nutrients to your baby's meals.
How should I store Beetroot fresh for my baby?
Store fresh Beetroot in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator crisper drawer, depending on the food. Wash just before preparing and use it when ripe and firm for the best quality for your baby.
Safety tips
- ✓Always cook beetroot until very soft — raw or undercooked beetroot is too firm and is a choking risk.
- ✓Cut into baby-finger-length strips or small mashable cubes; never thin coin-shaped slices.
- ✓Limit fresh-cooked beetroot to 1–2 servings per week and serve same-day to minimise nitrite formation. Don't reheat leftover beetroot puree multiple times.
- ✓Pink or red stools/urine (beeturia) after eating beetroot is normal and harmless — not a sign of bleeding.
- ✓Beetroot can stain skin, clothing, and high-chair trays. A bib and easy-clean tray make life easier.
- ✓Avoid pickled beets for babies under 12 months — they are high in salt and vinegar.
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