Cilantro (Coriander)

Herb/Spice

Last updated July 5, 2026. Can I Feed This safety guide guidance is checked against public pediatric and health sources, with source links included where available.

Written By

Tummi Food Team

Food prep and safety guidance

Medically Reviewed By

Andria ProcopioandArefa Mohamed

Pediatric feeding and development specialists

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.

6+months Serve Age: Most babies start solids around 6 months once they show readiness signs. Match the texture and serving size to your baby's skills.
How to serve
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.
Details
12345 1 Choking Risk: Lower choking risk when served in the right texture. Always supervise meals and adjust the shape for your baby.
Risk notes

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)?

1
Rinse cilantro well, pat dry, and discard thick woody stems; chop leaves and tender stems very finely.
2
Blend cilantro into sauces, dressings, or yogurt until smooth and stir into steamed vegetables, flaked poached fish, or shredded chicken for even flavor.
3
Finely mince and fold cilantro into soft, scoopable foods like mashed vegetables, rice, or yogurt so pieces are tiny and easy to manage.
4
Start with a small amount and wait 48–72 hours before increasing to watch for reactions; introduce gradually if this is a first exposure.
5
Always supervise meals and offer small sips from an open cup if mild gagging happens, and continue to observe the baby.

Is Cilantro (Coriander) a Common Allergen?

Dairy

Egg

Fish

Gluten

Tree Nut

Peanut

Sesame

Shellfish

Soy

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.

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Try For Free

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