Fennel is a long-standing staple in European baby-food jars because it is gentle on developing digestive systems and pairs well with carrot, potato, pear, or apple. Both the bulb and the feathery fronds are edible — most baby recipes use the bulb.
When babies can eat fennel
Babies can eat fennel from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness for solids (sitting with support, lost tongue-thrust, interest in food).
The bulb should always be cooked until very soft — steamed, braised, or roasted — until the flesh yields easily when pressed between your finger and thumb. Raw fennel is too fibrous and stringy for babies under 12 months.
Fennel is not a common allergen and is generally well tolerated. Some traditions associate fennel with reduced gas — evidence in babies is limited, so introduce it like any other vegetable.
See our first foods for baby guide for more ideas.
Nutritional benefits for babies
- 💚Vitamin C supports iron absorption from iron-rich foods served alongside.
- 💚Potassium supports healthy heart and muscle function.
- 💚Dietary fibre encourages healthy bowel movements and feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
- 💚Naturally low in sodium — a safe choice for babies under 12 months.
- 💚Mild, slightly sweet flavour helps babies build a broad vegetable palate.
How to serve fennel for babies
6–9 months (puree): Trim the stalks and tough core, slice the bulb thin, steam 12–15 minutes until very soft, then blend smooth with a little of the cooking water or breast milk/formula. Combine with pear, apple, or potato for a milder start.
6–9 months (BLW): Cut the cooked bulb into wedges the length of an adult finger so baby can grasp the broad end and bring the narrower end to mouth. Make sure each wedge mashes easily between your fingers.
9–12 months: Offer smaller bite-size cubes of slow-braised fennel, mix into pasta or risotto, or add chopped soft fennel to mild fish dishes.
12+ months: Roasted fennel quarters with olive oil, fennel-and-orange salad with very finely shaved bulb, fennel in a mild family stew.
How to cut vegetables for BLW
For safe shapes and sizes by age, see our detailed How to cut vegetables for BLW guide.
Also check how to cut food for baby-led weaning for general BLW cutting tips.
Fennel recipes for babies
We're adding more fennel recipes. Check back soon.
Browse all baby recipes →See all fennel 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 Fennel?
Yes. Babies can eat Fennel 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 Fennel?
Babies can eat Fennel from around 6 months when starting solids. Babies can eat fennel from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness for solids (sitting with support, lost tongue-thrust, interest in food). The bulb should always be cooked until very soft — steamed, braised, or roasted — until the flesh yields easily when pressed between your finger and thumb. Raw fennel is too fibrous and stringy for babies under 12 months. Fennel is not a common allergen and is generally well tolerated. Some traditions associate fennel with reduced gas — evidence in babies is limited, so introduce it like any other vegetable.
Is Fennel a choking hazard for babies?
Fennel can be a choking hazard if served in unsafe shapes. Always cook fennel until very soft — raw or undercooked fennel is too fibrous and a choking risk for babies under 12 months. Remove the tough outer layer of the bulb and the woody core before cooking. Cut into baby-finger-length wedges or small mashable cubes, never into thin coin-shaped slices that can lodge in the throat. Avoid adding salt or strong stock — babies under 12 months should have less than 1g of salt per day. If your baby has a known celery family allergy (celery, parsley, carrot, dill), talk to your pediatrician before introducing fennel — cross-reactions are uncommon but possible.
Is Fennel a common allergen?
Some babies may be allergic to Fennel. Introduce Fennel carefully when babies start solids and watch for reactions.
How should Fennel be served to babies?
6–9 months (puree): Trim the stalks and tough core, slice the bulb thin, steam 12–15 minutes until very soft, then blend smooth with a little of the cooking water or breast milk/formula. Combine with pear, apple, or potato for a milder start. 6–9 months (BLW): Cut the cooked bulb into wedges the length of an adult finger so baby can grasp the broad end and bring the narrower end to mouth. Make sure each wedge mashes easily between your fingers. 9–12 months: Offer smaller bite-size cubes of slow-braised fennel, mix into pasta or risotto, or add chopped soft fennel to mild fish dishes. 12+ months: Roasted fennel quarters with olive oil, fennel-and-orange salad with very finely shaved bulb, fennel in a mild family stew.
What nutrients does Fennel provide for babies?
Fennel provides nutrients like potassium, fibre, vitamin C, iron that support babies' growth and development.
How long can I store Fennel for babies?
Cook Fennel 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 Fennel for my baby?
Organic Fennel 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 Fennel for the first time?
Offer a small amount of Fennel 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 Fennel a good finger food for babies?
Yes. Fennel 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 Fennel for baby?
Fennel can be combined with a variety of baby-friendly foods like grains, soft fruits, vegetables, or yogurt to build balanced meals.
Should I cook Fennel before serving it to my baby?
Yes. Cook Fennel until tender and easily mashable before serving it to your baby. Steaming, boiling, or roasting softens it enough to be safe.
How much Fennel can a baby eat?
There's no fixed amount. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of Fennel 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 Fennel for my baby?
For Fennel, peeling or pitting is usually not required, but wash it well and serve in a size and texture safe for your baby.
How should I store Fennel fresh for my baby?
Store fresh Fennel 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 fennel until very soft — raw or undercooked fennel is too fibrous and a choking risk for babies under 12 months.
- ✓Remove the tough outer layer of the bulb and the woody core before cooking.
- ✓Cut into baby-finger-length wedges or small mashable cubes, never into thin coin-shaped slices that can lodge in the throat.
- ✓Avoid adding salt or strong stock — babies under 12 months should have less than 1g of salt per day.
- ✓If your baby has a known celery family allergy (celery, parsley, carrot, dill), talk to your pediatrician before introducing fennel — cross-reactions are uncommon but possible.
Make Starting Solids Simple
Nibli helps parents confidently introduce new foods with simple recipes, feeding schedules, and cutting guides.
Try Nibli today to start planning your baby's meals.