Prep warning
Use only pasteurized cheese. Cheese is naturally salty, so offer small amounts and avoid adding extra salt.
Choking notes
Firm cheese cut into cubes or chunks is a choking hazard for babies and young children. Finely grate, melt, or cut into thin soft strips instead, and always stay nearby while your child eats.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Offer pasteurized full-fat cheddar finely grated over soft food, or melted thinly into a warm dish like mashed vegetables or scrambled egg. A thin smear of cream cheese or a cheese sauce stirred through purée also works. Use only pasteurized cheese, and keep portions small since cheese is salty.
Finely grate, smear thinly, or melt into the dish. Do not give cubes or chunks of firm cheese at this stage.
9-12 months
As the pincer grasp develops, offer pasteurized cheddar coarsely grated or in thin soft strips that flatten easily in the mouth. It also mixes well into soft finger foods. Keep using pasteurized cheese only and keep portions small because of the salt.
Coarsely grate or cut into thin soft strips, not firm cubes or chunks.
12-18 months
Offer pasteurized cheddar coarsely grated or in small soft strips alongside meals. Larger firm cubes and thick chunks are still best avoided because firm cheese can be hard to chew safely. Cheese stays salty, so small portions are still the way to go.
Coarsely grate or cut into small soft strips. Avoid large firm cubes and thick chunks.
Key nutrients
Allergen information
Milk is a common allergen. Read Milk guidance
Common questions
When can my baby eat Cheddar cheese?
Most babies can try Cheddar cheese from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
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