Grains Food Library
When can babies have teff?
Can babies have teff?
Babies can have teff from about 6 months as a cooked porridge, with soft teff pancakes and injera from about 7–8 months. Teff is a tiny, naturally gluten-free whole grain that is rich in iron. It is not a common allergen.
How to serve teff by age
Shapes and textures change as your baby’s grasp and chewing grow.
6 months
Cook teff into a smooth, soft porridge with plenty of water, breast milk or formula and offer it on a preloaded spoon, plain or mixed with smooth fruit or vegetable puree.
7–8 months
Cook teff porridge a little thicker and mix in mashed fruit or vegetables. You can also make soft teff pancakes or injera and cut them into strips your baby can hold.
9–12 months
Offer small pieces of injera or teff pancakes for self-feeding. Mix teff porridge with fruit or vegetables.
12 months +
Toddlers can have injera with stews, teff muffins and porridge. Teff can be used in baking.
Why it’s good
Teff is rich in iron, calcium, protein, fiber and magnesium. Iron is important for babies, and teff provides more iron than many grains.
Safety notes
- Cook teff fully until soft.
- Teff is gluten free but may be processed with wheat. Check labels if needed.
- Injera can be chewy. Tear it into small pieces.
A low-allergy food, still worth watching
Teff is not a common allergen. Reactions are rare.
Teff for babies: questions parents ask
Quick answers about teff for babies and toddlers.
When can babies have teff?
Babies can have teff from about 6 months as porridge, with soft pancakes from about 7–8 months. Teff is rich in iron.
Can babies have teff?
Yes, babies can eat teff. Teff is a whole grain that is gluten free.
Is teff a choking hazard for babies?
Teff is a low choking risk when cooked into porridge. Injera can be chewy, so tear it into small pieces.
Is teff a common allergen?
No, teff is not a common allergen. Allergic reactions to teff are rare.
How do I serve teff to a 6 month old?
To serve teff to a 6 month old, cook it into a smooth, soft porridge and serve on a spoon. Soft teff pancakes in strips can follow at 7–8 months.
Can babies have injera?
Yes, babies can eat injera, which is made from teff. Tear injera into strips or small pieces.
Is teff gluten free?
Yes, teff is naturally gluten free. Check labels for cross-contamination.
Can teff help babies poop?
Teff contains fiber, which can help babies have regular bowel movements. Offer teff with water and fruits.
The takeaway
- Babies can have teff from about 6 months as a cooked porridge, with soft teff pancakes and injera from about 7–8 months.
- Cook teff into a smooth, soft porridge with plenty of water, breast milk or formula and offer it on a preloaded spoon, plain or mixed with smooth fruit or vegetable puree.
- Choking risk is low. Not a Top 9 allergen, but offer a small amount first and watch for any reaction.
Read next
Sources
This guide follows current advice from these organizations.
- Starting Solid Foods American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org)
- When, What, and How to Introduce Solid Foods Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Choking Hazards Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Iron Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Updated November 2026. Reviewed by our dietitians. Based on AAP, CDC and NIAID guidance. Written for healthy, full-term babies; not a substitute for your pediatrician. If your baby was born early, has a medical condition, feeding difficulties or a known allergy, check with them first (medical disclaimer). Always stay with your baby while they eat.