Quick Answer
No, babies should not have vanilla extract added to their milk or formula. Vanilla extract contains alcohol which can be harmful to infants. There are better flavored options to give milk more taste for babies over 6 months old, like adding a small amount of vanilla bean paste or vanilla syrup. But any added flavors should be discussed with a pediatrician first.
What is Vanilla Extract?
Vanilla extract is made by soaking vanilla beans in a solution of ethanol and water. This allows the flavor compounds from the vanilla to infuse into the liquid. By FDA standards, pure vanilla extract must contain at least 13.35 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon, and contain 35% alcohol. This gives it a strong vanilla flavor.
The alcohol allows the flavor to extract from the vanilla beans and acts as a preservative for the vanilla extract. The alcohol content is usually around 35-50% in commercially sold vanilla extracts.
Why Babies Should Not Have Vanilla Extract
There are a few key reasons why vanilla extract is not safe for babies:
Alcohol content
The alcohol in vanilla extract can be toxic and intoxicating for infants. Baby’s livers are not developed enough to properly metabolize alcohol until around 6 months of age. Consuming alcohol can cause issues like diarrhea, drowsiness, and slowed breathing. Giving an infant alcohol should be avoided.
Flavor is too strong
Vanilla extract has a very concentrated flavor which can overwhelm a baby’s senses. Infants have heightened taste bud sensitivity compared to adults. The intense vanilla taste may be disliked or even rejected by babies, causing feeding problems.
Choking hazard
Putting vanilla extract directly into a baby’s bottle poses a potential choking risk. Vanilla extract’s thick consistency coupled with a baby’s underdeveloped swallowing skills makes it a choking hazard. Accidentally inhaling the vanilla extract into the lungs could cause alcohol poisoning.
Safe Vanilla Flavorings for Babies
If you want to add a little vanilla flavor to your baby’s milk or food, there are some safer options:
Vanilla Bean Paste
Vanilla bean paste provides vanilla flavor without alcohol. It’s made by infusing vanilla bean seeds into a sugar syrup base. The flavor is more mild than extract. Use sparingly and check for added sugar.
Vanilla Syrup
Vanilla syrups contain vanilla and sugar dissolved in water. They have a milder taste and thinner consistency than extract. Check the label for added sugars. Pure vanilla syrups won’t contain alcohol.
Vanilla Powder
Ground vanilla bean powder provides flavor without alcohol. It can be sprinkled lightly into milk or food. Use sparingly since the flavor is concentrated.
At What Age Can Babies Have Vanilla Extract?
Most pediatricians recommend waiting until 12 months old before introducing small amounts of vanilla extract. By this age, babies have more developed metabolic systems and motor skills to swallow thicker liquids safely.
Always double check with your pediatrician before giving any new foods or flavorings, even vanilla extract, to confirm it’s appropriate for your baby’s age and development. Start with tiny quantities like 1/8 teaspoon in 8 ounces of milk to test tolerance.
Conclusion
Vanilla extract should be avoided for infants under 12 months old due to its alcohol content. Babies’ livers cannot process alcohol properly. Vanilla extract also poses risks of choking and is too strongly flavored for babies’ palates. Safer vanilla flavor options include vanilla bean paste, vanilla syrup, or vanilla powder. Any added flavors should be approved by a pediatrician first. At around 1 year old, small amounts of vanilla extract can be introduced after discussing with your doctor. Moderation and supervision are still required when adding vanilla extract to any baby’s diet.