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Gai lan
Gai lan
| Nutrient | Per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 80 mg |
| Vitamin A | 93 µg |
| Calcium | 105 mg |
| Iron | 0.6 mg |
Not a common allergen. It is not on the UK list of 14 foods that must be declared on labels.
How to serve Gai lan to babies
6–8 months
Stalk as a handle
Steam a whole stalk with leaves until the thickest part squashes easily, and offer it by the stalk end — the same geometry NHS gives for broccoli and cauliflower.
9–11 months
Bite-size pieces
Leaves and softened stem chopped into small pieces once your baby picks things up between finger and thumb.
12–24 months
Bite-size pieces
Chopped into the family meal, cooked soft — raw or undercooked stalk stays out.
Watch out for
- Prepare it rightunder 36 months
Hard raw fruit and vegetables are a choking risk. Grate, mash, steam or simmer them, or cut into slices rather than small chunks.
NHS Best Start in Life: preparing food safely for babies
Per 100 g from USDA FDC (169985). Not medical advice.
Gai lan: common questions
Answers are drawn from the sources named on this page. Not medical or veterinary advice.
When can babies eat gai lan?
The earliest stage on this page is 6–8 months: Steam a whole stalk with leaves until the thickest part squashes easily, and offer it by the stalk end — the same geometry NHS gives for broccoli and cauliflower.
How do I cut and serve gai lan for my baby?
6–8 months (Stalk as a handle): Steam a whole stalk with leaves until the thickest part squashes easily, and offer it by the stalk end — the same geometry NHS gives for broccoli and cauliflower.
9–11 months (Bite-size pieces): Leaves and softened stem chopped into small pieces once your baby picks things up between finger and thumb.
12–24 months (Bite-size pieces): Chopped into the family meal, cooked soft — raw or undercooked stalk stays out.
Is gai lan a choking hazard for babies?
Hard raw fruit and vegetables are a choking risk. Grate, mash, steam or simmer them, or cut into slices rather than small chunks. Source: NHS Best Start in Life: preparing food safely for babies.