The Short Answer
Babies can eat fish from around 6 months old. Fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Choose low-mercury varieties and always ensure fish is thoroughly cooked and deboned.
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- Safe from 6 months: The AAP and WHO support fish as an excellent early protein source from around 6 months. The FDA recommends 2–3 servings of low-mercury fish per week for children.
- Choose low-mercury fish: Salmon, cod, trout, sardines, and pollock are the best choices. Avoid shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and bigeye tuna.
- Fish is a top allergen: Fish is one of the top 9 allergens. Introduce a small portion first and wait 2–3 days before other new foods.
- Always fully cook and debone: Never serve raw fish to babies. Check carefully for bones even in "boneless" fillets.
- Brain-boosting omega-3: DHA in fish is critical for brain and eye development, one of the most important nutrients in the first year.
Nutritional Benefits
Fish is one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can offer your baby:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) - critical for brain and eye development
- High-quality protein - supports growth and muscle development
- Vitamin D - important for bone health and immune function
Fish also provides iodine, zinc, and B vitamins.
How to Prepare Fish for Different Ages
6 to 8 Months
Baby-led weaning (BLW): Offer a large, soft flake or finger-sized piece of well-cooked fish. Salmon is ideal as it holds together well and is easy to grip. Remove ALL bones carefully before serving.
Puree approach: Cook fish thoroughly, then flake and blend with a little water, breast milk, or vegetable puree until smooth.
9 to 12 Months
Offer small, soft flakes of cooked fish. Fish can be mixed into mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta. Fish cakes (homemade, without added salt) are an excellent finger food at this age.
12+ Months
Serve fish in larger pieces, as part of family meals. Fish tacos, fish fingers (homemade), pasta with fish sauce, and fish soup are all great options.
Which Fish to Choose
Best Choices (low mercury, high omega-3)
- Salmon - excellent DHA content, mild flavor
- Cod - mild, white fish, very low mercury
- Sardines - high in omega-3, calcium (from soft bones)
- Trout - similar benefits to salmon
- Pollock - mild, affordable
Fish to Avoid (high mercury)
- Shark
- Swordfish
- King mackerel
- Tilefish
- Bigeye tuna
The FDA recommends that children eat 2 to 3 servings of low-mercury fish per week. One serving for a baby is about 1 ounce (28 grams). Canned light tuna is lower in mercury than albacore (white) tuna.
Allergen Info
Fish is one of the top 9 allergens. When introducing fish:
- Start with a small portion and wait 2 to 3 days before introducing another new food
- Watch for allergic reactions: hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing
- Being allergic to one type of fish does not always mean allergy to all fish, but discuss with your pediatrician
- Shellfish (shrimp, crab) is a separate allergen from fish
Learn more about introducing allergens safely.
Choking Hazards
- Always check carefully for bones before serving, even in "boneless" fillets
- Avoid dry, flaky fish that crumbles into small pieces
- Serve fish moist and soft, not overcooked or fried
- Always supervise your baby during meals
Frequently Asked Questions
Can babies eat canned tuna?
Yes, from 6 months in small amounts. Choose canned light tuna (skipjack), which is lower in mercury than albacore (white) tuna. Limit to 1 to 2 servings per week and rinse canned tuna to reduce sodium.
Can babies eat smoked salmon?
Smoked salmon is high in sodium and may contain Listeria bacteria, so it is best avoided for babies under 12 months. After 12 months, offer in small amounts occasionally. Freshly cooked salmon is always the better choice.
Is raw fish (sushi) safe for babies?
No. Raw fish should not be given to babies or young children due to the risk of parasites and bacteria. Always serve fish fully cooked until it flakes easily with a fork.
Explore More
Use our SmartStart Food Guide to check which foods are safe for your baby's age. For a complete guide to starting solids, read our Baby-Led Weaning Complete Guide.
Looking for more first foods? Check our guides on Meat for Babies and Eggs for Babies.
More Foods to Explore
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) - Starting Solid Foods
- FDA - Advice About Eating Fish
- World Health Organization (WHO) - Complementary Feeding
- NHS Start4Life - First Foods
Helpful tools
- Baby Food Guide. Safe foods and introduction schedule for your baby
- Baby Milestones Tracker. Track your baby's developmental milestones
- All Baby Tools. Browse all free tools for pregnancy and baby care
Related articles
- When Can Babies Eat Peanut Butter? Age, Safety & How to Serve. Find out when babies can have peanut butter, how to introduce it safely, allergy prevention guidelines from AAP, and age-appropriate serving tips.
- Fish for Baby: Which Types Are Safe from 6 Months?. Which fish can your baby eat? Complete guide to safe fish types, amounts, and preparation for babies from 6 months, based on international dietary guidelines.
- Omega-3 for Children. Why Fish Is So Important. Why omega-3 and DHA are important for your child's brain development. Recommendations for fish for babies and children, with safe fish types and supplement tips.
