Former Love Island contestant Montana Brown has ignited controversy by revealing her decision to feed her children, aged three years and 20 months, whole nuts from as young as eight months old. This approach directly conflicts with National Health Service (NHS) guidelines, which advise against giving whole nuts to children under five due to the risk of choking.
According to NHS guidance, whole nuts should not be given to young children. Instead, they should be crushed or ground and incorporated into food, or served in a butter form to mitigate choking hazards. Brown, however, stated that her motivation stems from personal experience with a severe nut allergy and a belief in teaching children to chew properly from an early age.
"I know giving children nuts is seen as a choking hazard and controversial," Brown wrote. "However, having grown up with a severe allergy… it’s been important for me to introduce early. I also am of the opinion that if we don’t teach our kids to chew things properly especially when they’re small then I’m not sure it’s helpful to avoid giving them until they’re older?"
She detailed her method, explaining that she ensures her children are seated and attentive when eating nuts and seeds, emphasizing the importance of chewing. Brown acknowledged that she previously blended nuts for her children but transitioned to offering whole nuts around eight or nine months old, while advising others to seek professional advice and noting that this differs from NHS recommendations.
Brown also highlighted the nutritional benefits of nuts and seeds, citing their value as a snack and their contribution to fiber intake, noting that many children do not meet recommended levels. She suggested nut butters as an alternative for those who prefer not to give whole nuts.
This is not the first time Brown has faced public criticism for her parenting-related social media posts. She has previously drawn backlash for comments on school desserts, sugar consumption, and children's food pouches. In one instance, she criticized schools for serving desserts daily and giving biscuits, arguing it normalized sugar exposure. In another, she expressed dismay over parents buying ready-made food pouches, which she described as "full of c**p," and urged parents to opt for simpler alternatives like fresh vegetables. These past statements also generated significant public debate, with some accusing her of being out of touch or guilt-tripping parents.
Brown's dietary priorities for her children also include wild-caught fish, grass-fed meat, pickles, olives, and broccoli sprouts. The current discussion around nuts, however, centers on safety concerns and adherence to established health guidelines for young children.