Introducing Fish to Your Baby
Finned fish such as salmon and cod are nutritious early foods (a source of omega-3s) and can be introduced around 6 months. The main practical concern is removing bones.
Safe ways to serve fish
- Well-cooked, flaked salmon or cod with all bones carefully removed
- Fish mashed into a soft, mild base
General tips for introducing allergens
- Most babies are ready for solids around 6 months, once they can sit with support and show interest.
- Introduce one new allergen at a time and wait about 2–3 days before the next, so any reaction is easy to trace.
- Once an allergen is tolerated, keeping it in the diet regularly is part of current guidance.
- Offer allergens earlier in the day (not right before bed) so you can watch for any reaction.
- If your baby has severe eczema or a known food allergy, talk to your pediatrician before introducing peanut or egg.
New to allergens? Read the complete introduction guide →
Signs of an allergic reaction
- Hives, redness, or swelling (lips, face, tongue)
- Vomiting or lots of drooling/coughing right after eating
- Widespread rash or worsening eczema
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or floppiness: call emergency services immediately
Frequently asked questions
When can babies eat fish?
Well-cooked, deboned finned fish like salmon can usually be introduced around 6 months. It’s a common early allergen worth introducing rather than delaying.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org): starting solids & allergens
- NIAID 2017 Addendum Guidelines: prevention of peanut allergy
- LEAP Study (Learning Early About Peanut Allergy)
Track it in Yummy Yucky
Log first tries, get nudged through the 3-day allergen watch, and keep every bite in one place you can share with your pediatrician.
Start tracking for freeHow we write these: from widely published pediatric guidance (AAP, NIAID 2017 guidelines, the LEAP study), with sources cited on every page. Pending review by a pediatric professional.
This is general information, not medical advice, and has not been individually reviewed for your baby. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's diet, introducing allergens, and any reaction. In an emergency, contact emergency services.
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