Cilantro (Coriander)
Herb/Spice
Last updated July 5, 2026. The Tummi Food Team maintains this Can I Feed This safety guide guide. Supporting links appear in Sources when available.
Clinically reviewed by Andria Procopio and Arefa Mohamed
Direct answer
Can babies eat Cilantro (Coriander)?
Yes, cilantro can be introduced around 6 months of age once the baby is ready for solids, prepared fresh and in small amounts.
- Serve Age6+months
Most babies start solids around 6 months once they show readiness signs. Match the texture and serving size to your baby's skills.
- No Allergens
Cilantro (Coriander) is not flagged as one of the major allergens tracked in this database. Still watch your baby closely when serving any new food.
- Choking Risk123451
Lower choking risk when served in the right texture. Always supervise meals and adjust the shape for your baby.
This guide is for everyday food prep questions. Ask your pediatrician about medical concerns, feeding delays, allergy plans, or serious reactions.
How Do You Serve Cilantro (Coriander)?
How to serve Cilantro (Coriander) to babies 6 months and older
- 1Rinse cilantro well, pat dry, and discard thick woody stems; chop leaves and tender stems very finely.
- 2Blend cilantro into sauces, dressings, or yogurt until smooth and stir into steamed vegetables, flaked poached fish, or shredded chicken for even flavor.
- 3Finely mince and fold cilantro into soft, scoopable foods like mashed vegetables, rice, or yogurt so pieces are tiny and easy to manage.
- 4Start with a small amount and wait 48–72 hours before increasing to watch for reactions; introduce gradually if this is a first exposure.
- 5Always supervise meals and offer small sips from an open cup if mild gagging happens, and continue to observe the baby.
How to serve Cilantro (Coriander) to babies 12 months and older
- 1Rinse cilantro thoroughly to remove dirt and grit, then shake or pat dry before serving.
- 2Trim away thick stems and finely chop the leaves into very small pieces (about 2–3 mm) to reduce gagging risk.
- 3Mix into soft foods like mashed avocado, yogurt, or scrambled eggs so the flavor is distributed; you can also offer a few small whole leaves if the child tolerates textures.
- 4Avoid large leaves and long stems to lower choking risk, always supervise the child while eating, and keep a cup of water nearby.
- 5Start with tiny amounts, watch for any reaction over 24–48 hours, and consult your pediatrician if there is a family history of herb or food allergies.
Is Cilantro (Coriander) a Common Allergen?
Cilantro (coriander) is not a common major food allergen, but people with pollen allergies (for example birch or mugwort) or sensitivities to plants in the Apiaceae family (like celery) can get oral allergy syndrome—itching or swelling of the mouth/throat after eating raw cilantro. Contact dermatitis from handling cilantro and rare systemic reactions (including anaphylaxis) have been reported. If a child develops hives, facial or throat swelling, vomiting, or breathing difficulty after touching or eating cilantro, seek immediate medical care and follow up with an allergist.
Is Cilantro (Coriander) a Choking Hazard?
Very Low Choking Risk
Cilantro presents a low choking risk, but whole leaves can stick to a baby’s tongue or mouth and may cause gagging or coughing. Stay within arm’s reach during meals and watch closely for signs of gagging or choking. If gagging occurs, offering a small sip of water can help clear the mouth, and be prepared to provide first-aid if needed.
Have More Questions?
Yes, cilantro can be introduced to babies around 6 months old when solids are started. It is a versatile herb that can flavor a variety of dishes suitable for infants.
Yes, cilantro provides some vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin K, and contains antioxidants, making it a healthy addition in small amounts once babies are ready for solids.
No, cilantro is not a common allergen, but some sensitive individuals might react, especially if they have pollen allergies or Oral Allergy Syndrome. Start with small amounts to check tolerability.
No, cilantro is not a choking hazard if prepared properly for babies. Serve it in a finely chopped or pureed form suitable for your child's developmental stage.
No, cilantro does not contain compounds that cause soapiness in most people; however, taste perceptions vary due to genetics and environmental factors, which can affect how some babies might perceive cilantro.
Save Cilantro (Coriander) to your food log
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Sources
- Antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities of some leafy vegetables doi.org
- Anaphylaxis following cilantro ingestion doi.org
- Immunological and respiratory findings in spice-factory workers doi.org
- Genetic analysis of chemosensory traits in human twins doi.org
- A genetic variant near olfactory receptor genes influences cilantro preference doi.org
What Other Herb/Spice Can Babies Eat?
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Source-Linked Guidance
See the evidence behind the guide.
Food guides show direct links to public-health guidance and research when supporting references are available. Source inclusion does not imply endorsement.
Centers for Disease Control and PreventionDevelopmental milestones, nutrition guidelines, and allergen introduction timelines.
American Academy of PediatricsEvidence-based feeding recommendations from the leading pediatric authority.
National Institutes of HealthPeer-reviewed research on infant nutrition, allergies, and food safety.