13/08/2026
With a unique combination of essential nutrients, milk, cheese and yoghurt have an important role in your diet through all life stages – from childhood through to older age.
Introducing nutritious foods is an exciting milestone for babies and toddlers, and when to introduce cow’s milk is often a common question for parents.
What age should milk be introduced?
Regular-fat milk may be introduced as a drink at around 12 months of age and continued as children get older. Low-fat and reduced-fat milks are not recommended for children under the age of two.
For babies under 12 months, milk should not be offered as their main drink. However, small amounts can be used when making solid foods like cereals and custards from around 6 months of age.
What age should other dairy products like yoghurt and cheese be introduced?
Regular-fat yoghurt, cheese and custard can be introduced around the age of 6 months along with other solid foods. Regular-fat dairy products (compared to low-fat products) provide the extra energy babies need for growth.
How much dairy do toddlers need?
Australian dietary guidance recommends:
Toddlers aged 1-2 years need 1 to 1 ½ serves of dairy a day to meet their nutritional requirements.
Toddlers aged 2-3 need 1½ serves of dairy a day to meet their nutritional requirements.
Clinical guidance on iron deficiency recommends toddlers have no more than 500mL milk each day to allow room for other nutritious foods, as part of a balanced diet.
It’s important to remember cow's milk is a safe and nutritious food for most children from 12 months of age as part of a healthy, balanced diet. It provides important nutrients such as protein, calcium and vitamin B12, which support growth and development.
If you are concerned about your child's iron levels, growth or eating habits, speak with your GP or paediatric health care professional for personalised advice.
