Ask Karen: Is steak OK for babies?

Karen McNew
WSLS 10 Anchor
Published: September 24, 2008

Is steak OK for babies?

QUESTION: My husband and I are having a debate about our son eating steak. I think it’s too “grown up” for him, and too hard for his little body to break down (he is 18 months old). My husband thinks it’s fine for him to eat. I’ve discussed it with a few people and no one really knows the answer.

ANSWER: Carilion Clinic’s Chief of Pediatrics, Dr. John Moore, tells me this question comes up a lot among parents.

Dr. Moore says, “Steak is OK for toddlers to eat and not too ‘adult’ for them, but also not necessary.”

He adds that in smaller quantities, steak is fine for children, but make sure that it is cut up in very small bites to avoid choking.

But, Dr. Moore says,”Most toddlers don’t like the taste and texture of beef. A typical 18-month-old likes chicken and maybe turkey.”