Prep warning
Choose a pasteurized paneer, or make it from pasteurized milk. Paneer is usually unsalted, which suits babies, and it holds its shape rather than melting, so it needs to be crumbled or cut very small.
Choking notes
A firm cube of paneer is a choking hazard for babies and toddlers. Crumble it, grate it, mash it, or cut it into small soft pieces rather than offering firm cubes, and keep this up through the toddler years.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Offer pasteurized paneer crumbled or grated finely and stirred into a purée, mashed vegetables, or a soft cooked dish so it softens. It does not melt, so keep it well moistened and avoid firm cubes at this age.
Finely crumble or grate into moist food; never firm cubes.
9-12 months
Keep offering pasteurized paneer crumbled, grated, or mashed into dishes. As the pincer grasp develops, soft small crumbles or thin short soft pieces (lightly cooked in a sauce) can be tried, but skip firm cubes.
Crumbled, grated, or thin short soft pieces; no firm cubes.
12-18 months
Pasteurized paneer can be served crumbled, grated, or in small soft pieces as part of family meals such as a mild curry or stir-fry, cooked until soft. Avoid large firm cubes, which keep their choking shape.
Crumbled, grated, or small soft pieces cooked until soft; no large firm cubes.
Key nutrients
Allergen information
Milk is a common allergen. Read Milk guidance
Common questions
When can my baby eat Paneer?
Most babies can try Paneer 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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