Is Curd Good for Babies? A Comprehensive Guide to Healthy Feeding

December 29, 2025 •

3 min read

According to paediatricians and nutrition experts, curd is generally safe for babies and can be introduced as early as six to eight months of age, during the solid food introduction phase. Its fermented nature makes it easier to digest than plain cow's milk, which is not recommended until after one year.

Quick Summary

Yes, curd is a nutritious and beneficial food for babies over six months, providing essential probiotics, calcium, and protein. Introduction should be done correctly, starting with plain, unsweetened, and full-fat versions to support healthy digestion and development.

Key Points

Start at 6+ Months: Introduce plain, full-fat curd when your baby starts solids, around 6 to 8 months old.
Easier to Digest: Fermented curd is easier for a baby's digestive system to handle than regular cow's milk.
Boosts Gut Health: Rich in probiotics, curd promotes a healthy gut flora, which aids digestion and immunity.
Packed with Nutrients: A great source of calcium, protein, and vitamins essential for bone development and growth.
Avoid Added Sugars: Always opt for plain, unsweetened curd to prevent unhealthy sugar intake.
Watch for Allergies: Monitor your baby for any signs of an allergic reaction, especially if there's a family history of dairy intolerance.
Serve at Room Temperature: Avoid giving cold curd; bringing it to room temperature is gentler on your baby's stomach.

The Benefits of Introducing Curd to Your Baby

Curd, often referred to as dahi in many parts of the world, offers a host of benefits that make it an excellent addition to a baby's diet after six months of age. Unlike regular cow's milk, the fermentation process in curd breaks down complex proteins, making them easier for an infant's immature digestive system to process. This provides a great way to introduce dairy and its associated nutrients safely.

Digestive Health and Probiotics

One of the most significant advantages of curd is its rich probiotic content. These beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus, support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in digestion. A healthy gut is crucial for nutrient absorption and can help alleviate common digestive issues like constipation and diarrhea. The probiotics in curd also play a role in boosting the baby's immune system, helping to fight off infections.

Essential Nutrients for Growth

Curd is a powerhouse of nutrients vital for a baby's rapid growth and development. It is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorus, which are fundamental for building strong bones and teeth. Additionally, it provides high-quality protein necessary for tissue repair and growth, along with essential vitamins like B12, B6, and Vitamin D.

How to Introduce Curd to Your Baby Safely

When introducing curd, a gradual approach is key. Start with just a small amount, such as one or two teaspoons, and monitor your baby for any adverse reactions over a few days. Always use homemade or plain, full-fat, unsweetened curd made from pasteurized milk. Avoid adding honey to curd for babies under one year old due to the risk of infant botulism. Serve it at room temperature to avoid shocking the baby's system.

How to Choose the Right Curd

Choosing the right type of curd is crucial for your baby's health. The market offers various types of dairy products, so it's important to know the differences.


Feature	Homemade Curd	Store-Bought Flavored Yogurt
Preparation	Made by fermenting milk with a 'starter' or lemon juice.	Produced commercially with specific bacterial strains and often contains additives.
Ingredients	Natural and simple: milk and a starter culture.	May contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
Probiotics	Contains a good range of natural probiotics from the starter.	Contains a higher, specific type of probiotic bacteria, but may be destroyed by pasteurization.
Sugar Content	Naturally low in lactose; no added sugars.	Often contains high amounts of added sugar, unsuitable for infants.
Best for Babies	Recommended for its purity, lack of additives, and easy digestibility.	Generally not recommended due to added sugars and potential allergens.

Creative Ways to Serve Curd to Your Baby

Once your baby is comfortable with plain curd, you can get creative to make it even more appealing and nutritious. These combinations help introduce new flavors and textures, encouraging a wider palate.

Curd and Fruit Puree: Mix plain curd with mashed bananas, grated apples, or pureed strawberries. Ensure the fruits are ripe and pureed smoothly.
Curd Rice: For older babies, you can mix curd with steamed and mashed rice for a soothing and nutritious meal.
Savory Curd: Add a pinch of roasted cumin powder to plain curd for a savory variation that also helps with digestion.
Curd Oats Khichdi: Combine cooked oatmeal with curd and a mix of vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Potential Considerations and Allergies

While curd is beneficial, it's important to be aware of potential issues. Cow's milk protein allergy is a possibility, though the risk is lower with fermented products like curd. Watch for signs of allergy, such as hives, swelling, or digestive upset. Always consult your pediatrician before introducing new foods, especially if there is a family history of dairy allergies.

Conclusion

Introducing curd to your baby at the right age, with careful preparation and observation, can be a fantastic step in their dietary journey. It is a nutrient-dense food that supports healthy digestion, strong bones, and a robust immune system. By starting with plain, homemade curd and gradually incorporating other wholesome ingredients, you can provide a healthy and delicious food that contributes significantly to your baby's overall well-being. Always prioritize your pediatrician's guidance and pay close attention to your baby's reaction to new foods for a safe and positive experience. For more expert advice on infant nutrition, you can consult reputable sources like the National Health Service (NHS) guidelines in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can introduce curd to your baby as early as 6 to 8 months of age, once they begin eating solid foods.

Yes. While often used interchangeably, commercially produced yogurt is made with specific bacterial cultures and often contains added sugars. Homemade curd is a more natural product without additives and is highly recommended for babies.

Curd's fermentation process breaks down milk proteins, making it easier to digest. Regular cow's milk contains complex proteins and minerals that can be hard on a baby's kidneys and is not recommended as a drink until after 12 months.

Start with plain, homemade, full-fat curd. You can serve it as is or mix it with mashed fruits like banana or cooked vegetables. Make sure it's at room temperature.

Yes, it is a myth that curd causes colds. You can give your baby fresh, homemade curd during a cold, preferably in the morning or afternoon. The probiotics can even be beneficial for their immune system.

For babies 6 to 10 months old, start with a small amount, about 1-2 teaspoons, and increase gradually. For older babies, around 100g per day is sufficient. Do not overfeed, as it may cause digestive upset.

Babies need fat for brain development, so full-fat (whole milk) curd is the best option until they are at least two years old.