One is those foods that pose an immediate type of danger, such as a choking hazard from popcorn, or a dangerous allergic reaction. The other is those foods that pose long term health hazards that arise from poor nutritional choices. Your child may lack the necessary teeth for chewing. Your child may be highly allergic to a specific food. The food might contain dangerous organisms.
Many foods pose a choking hazard.
These foods should be avoided because a child still has immature chewing and swallowing skills. Any food that is hard and round and can get stuck in a small airway and should be avoided. These foods include such things as whole grapes, raw carrots, raisins, apples, hot dogs, popcorn, hard candies, nuts and thick foods, such as peanut butter or some baby cereals. Hard foods such as carrots and apples can be served if they are soft cooked or grated if raw. Thinning down thick foods can help, such as adding some milk to cereal.