From the Guidelines
Yes, blueberries should be cut for toddlers to reduce the risk of choking.
Rationale
- According to the table provided in the study 1, blueberries are considered a lower-risk food for infants around 6 months of age, but they still pose a choking hazard if not prepared properly.
- The study notes that foods should be thinned with water or infant puree for appropriate infant texture and to prevent choking, implying that whole blueberries are not suitable for toddlers due to their size and texture.
- As toddlers develop and become more accustomed to eating solid foods, it is still important to cut or mash foods like blueberries to reduce the risk of choking, especially around 8 months of age or when developmentally appropriate.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends offering soft-cooked and bite-and-dissolve textures from around 8 months of age or as tolerated by the infant, which supports the idea of cutting or mashing blueberries for toddlers 1.
From the Research
Blueberry Consumption for Toddlers
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that suggests blueberries should be cut for toddlers 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is essential to consider the potential risks associated with blueberry consumption, particularly for children with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, as they may be at risk of haemolysis 4.
- The benefits of blueberry consumption for children, including improved cognitive function and neuroprotection, have been reported in several studies 2, 5, 6.
- When introducing blueberries to toddlers, it is crucial to ensure they are prepared safely to minimize the risk of choking or other adverse effects.
- Parents and caregivers should consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice on introducing blueberries to toddlers.