if he steals it and puts it in his mouth, i wouldn't take it off him. both mine did this and licked and tasted a few things between 5 and 6 months. i started offering food to both at 6 months, dd didn't really get into it til 8 or 9 months, ds was keen at first but then chilled for a bit, and started getting into it at 7 months ish.

And i think a sensitive gag reflex put both of them off putting alot in their mouth, until it settled down.

if you want to give something for teething, maybe try cucumber? cool on his teeth,