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Tahini (Sesame) for Babies: When to Start and How to Serve It

Tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, and sesame is a common allergen. You can offer it from around 6 months, once your baby has started solids: stir a little into purée, porridge or yoghurt, one new allergen at a time, and keep offering it if there’s no reaction. Thick tahini is sticky, so thin it or spread it very thinly. If your baby has severe eczema or a known food allergy, talk to your GP first.

📲 45 Bibful recipes with tahini

How to serve it by age

  1. Tahini, 6–8 months 6–8 months

    ✋ Finger food (BLW)

    A very thin smear of tahini on soft toast fingers or pancake strips.

    🥣 Purée or spoon

    Stir a little tahini, thinned with water or breast milk, into vegetable purée, porridge or yoghurt.

  2. Tahini, 9–12 months 9–12 months

    ✋ Finger food (BLW)

    Toast fingers or soft pancakes with a thin, even layer of tahini.

    🥣 Purée or spoon

    Swirl tahini into yoghurt, porridge or mashed vegetables.

  3. Tahini, 12+ months 12+ months

    ✋ Finger food (BLW)

    A thin spread of tahini on toast, or unsalted hummus on soft pitta fingers.

    🥣 Purée or spoon

    Swirl tahini into yoghurt, or mix it into sauces, dips or baking.

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45 Bibful recipes with tahini

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Preparation tips

Frequently asked questions

When can babies have sesame?

From around 6 months, once your baby has started solid foods, as a little tahini mixed into food. Delaying it doesn’t prevent allergy.

Is hummus OK for babies?

Yes, if it’s unsalted or low in salt. Homemade hummus without added salt is an easy way to offer sesame and chickpeas together, once each has been introduced on its own.

What are the signs of an allergic reaction?

Signs can include hives or a rash, swelling of the lips or face, vomiting, or coughing and wheezing, usually soon after eating. If your baby has trouble breathing or swallowing, call emergency services straight away. For milder signs, stop giving tahini and speak to your GP.

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This page is general information, not medical advice. It follows NHS Start for Life and World Health Organization guidance on introducing solid foods. Always stay with your baby while they eat, and speak to your health visitor or GP if you have concerns about feeding, allergies or choking.