The Short Answer
Babies can eat plain, whole-milk yogurt from around 6 months old. While cow's milk as a drink should wait until 12 months, yogurt is different because the fermentation process makes it easier to digest.
Key Takeaways
- Safe from 6 months: The AAP and WHO confirm that plain whole-milk yogurt is safe from 6 months, even though cow's milk as a drink should wait until 12 months.
- How to serve: Offer plain, full-fat yogurt on a preloaded spoon. Mix with mashed fruit for flavor. Avoid flavored or sweetened yogurts marketed to babies.
- Dairy is a top allergen: Cow's milk protein is one of the top 9 allergens. Introduce a small amount first and observe for 2–3 days before combining with other new foods.
- Choose full-fat, plain varieties: Whole-milk yogurt provides healthy fats essential for brain development. Greek yogurt is a great option for its higher protein and thicker texture.
- Supports gut health: Live cultures (probiotics) in yogurt support the developing gut microbiome and immune function.
Nutritional Benefits
Yogurt is an excellent early food for babies:
- Calcium - essential for building strong bones and teeth
- Protein - supports growth and muscle development
- Probiotics - live cultures support gut health and immune function
Yogurt also provides vitamin B12, phosphorus, and healthy fats (in whole-milk varieties) needed for brain development.
How to Prepare Yogurt for Different Ages
6 to 8 Months
Offer plain, whole-milk yogurt on a preloaded spoon. Let baby bring the spoon to their mouth independently. You can also mix yogurt with fruit purees (mashed banana, blueberries, or avocado) for added nutrition and flavor.
Choose: Plain, full-fat (whole milk) yogurt with no added sugar. Greek yogurt is also a great choice due to its higher protein content and thicker texture.
9 to 12 Months
Continue with plain yogurt, served with soft fruit pieces mixed in. Yogurt can also be used as a dip for soft fruit strips or toast fingers.
12+ Months
Yogurt can be served in bowls, as smoothies, in parfaits with fruit and granola, or frozen into popsicles. Continue choosing plain varieties and sweetening naturally with fruit.
Avoid flavored yogurts marketed to babies and children. They often contain high amounts of added sugar. Plain yogurt with mashed fresh fruit is always the healthier choice.
Allergen Info
Dairy (cow's milk protein) is one of the top 9 allergens. When introducing yogurt:
- Offer a small amount first and observe for 2 to 3 days
- Watch for signs of allergy: hives, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool, or facial swelling
- A dairy allergy is different from lactose intolerance (which is rare in infants)
- If your baby has been diagnosed with cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA), avoid yogurt and consult your pediatrician about alternatives
Learn more about introducing allergens safely.
Choking Hazards
Yogurt itself is not a choking hazard due to its smooth texture. However:
- Watch mix-ins - whole nuts, large fruit chunks, or granola pieces can pose a risk
- Ensure any fruit mixed in is cut to age-appropriate sizes
- Always supervise your baby during meals
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give my baby Greek yogurt?
Yes. Greek yogurt is an excellent choice for babies from 6 months. It is higher in protein and has a thicker texture that is easier for babies to eat from a spoon. Choose plain, whole-milk Greek yogurt with no added sugar.
Why can babies have yogurt but not cow's milk?
Yogurt is fermented, which partially breaks down the lactose and proteins, making it easier to digest. Cow's milk as a main drink is not recommended before 12 months because it does not provide enough iron and can be hard on immature kidneys. Small amounts of milk in cooking are fine from 6 months.
How much yogurt can a baby eat per day?
About 2 to 4 tablespoons per serving is appropriate for babies 6 to 12 months. Yogurt can be offered once or twice a day as part of a varied diet that includes other food groups.
Explore More
Use our SmartStart Food Guide to check which foods are safe for your baby's age. For a complete guide to starting solids, read our Baby-Led Weaning Complete Guide.
Looking for more first foods? Check our guides on Cheese for Babies and Bananas for Babies.
More Foods to Explore
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Starting Solid Foods
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Complementary Feeding
- NHS Start4Life - First Foods
🔧 Helpful Tools
- Baby Food Guide — Safe foods and introduction schedule for your baby
- Baby Milestones Tracker — Track your baby's developmental milestones
- All Baby Tools — Browse all free tools for pregnancy and baby care
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