Quick answer
Babies can eat well-cooked fish from around 6 months, once they're starting solids.
Fish is one of the common allergens, so introduce it on its own at first and keep it in the diet once tolerated. Aim to offer fish a couple of times a week, including one portion of oily fish.
The two things to get right are mercury (choose low-mercury fish and limit oily fish) and bones (check meticulously) — both are easy once you know the rules.
When babies can eat fish
Babies can eat well-cooked fish from around 6 months, once they're starting solids.
Fish is a common allergen — offer a small amount on its own, watch for any reaction, then include it regularly (white fish any number of times a week; limit oily fish like salmon/mackerel to about twice a week).
Avoid high-mercury fish for babies: shark, swordfish, and marlin. Choose low-mercury options like salmon, cod, haddock, pollock, and trout.
See our first foods for baby guide for more ideas.
Nutritional benefits for babies
- 💚Protein — high-quality complete protein in a soft, easy-to-eat form.
- 💚Omega-3 fats (DHA/EPA) — from oily fish; support brain, nerve, and eye development.
- 💚Vitamin D — supports bone development and the immune system.
- 💚Iodine — supports thyroid function and brain development.
- 💚Vitamin B12 and selenium — support nerve function and immunity.
- 💚Soft, flaky texture — naturally easy for babies to gum.
How to serve fish for babies
6–9 months: Poach, steam, or bake fish until it flakes; flake it carefully (checking for bones) and offer soft flakes or mixed into mashed potato or vegetables.
6–9 months: Blend cooked fish into a smooth purée with potato and a vegetable.
9–12 months: Soft fish flakes, fish-and-potato cakes, or homemade low-salt fish fingers as the pincer grasp develops.
12+ months: Fish in family fish pies, pasta, and stews — kept low-salt.
How to prepare fish for BLW
For safe shapes and sizes by age, see our detailed How to prepare fish for BLW guide.
Also check how to cut food for baby-led weaning for general BLW cutting tips.
Fish recipes for babies
Soft Fish Rice Cakes
Light Fish Paprikash (Tomato-Free)
Fish + Rice + Zucchini Gentle Meal Bowl
White Fish Pumpkin Millet Bowl
Fish Cauliflower Millet Bowl
See all fish recipes for babies. Explore baby breakfast recipes, baby-led weaning recipes and first foods for baby for more ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can babies eat Fish?
Yes. Babies can eat Fish starting around 6 months when they begin solid foods. It should be served in a safe texture and size for babies.
When can babies eat Fish?
Babies can eat Fish from around 6 months when starting solids. Babies can eat well-cooked fish from around 6 months, once they're starting solids. Fish is a common allergen — offer a small amount on its own, watch for any reaction, then include it regularly (white fish any number of times a week; limit oily fish like salmon/mackerel to about twice a week). Avoid high-mercury fish for babies: shark, swordfish, and marlin. Choose low-mercury options like salmon, cod, haddock, pollock, and trout.
Is Fish a choking hazard for babies?
Fish is generally safe for babies when prepared properly. 6–9 months: Poach, steam, or bake fish until it flakes; flake it carefully (checking for bones) and offer soft flakes or mixed into mashed potato or vegetables. 6–9 months: Blend cooked fish into a smooth purée with potato and a vegetable. 9–12 months: Soft fish flakes, fish-and-potato cakes, or homemade low-salt fish fingers as the pincer grasp develops. 12+ months: Fish in family fish pies, pasta, and stews — kept low-salt.
Is Fish a common allergen?
Some babies may be allergic to Fish. Introduce Fish carefully when babies start solids and watch for reactions.
How should Fish be served to babies?
6–9 months: Poach, steam, or bake fish until it flakes; flake it carefully (checking for bones) and offer soft flakes or mixed into mashed potato or vegetables. 6–9 months: Blend cooked fish into a smooth purée with potato and a vegetable. 9–12 months: Soft fish flakes, fish-and-potato cakes, or homemade low-salt fish fingers as the pincer grasp develops. 12+ months: Fish in family fish pies, pasta, and stews — kept low-salt.
What nutrients does Fish provide for babies?
Fish provides nutrients like protein that support babies' growth and development.
How long can I store Fish for babies?
Cook Fish to a safe temperature and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze in single-serving portions for up to 1 month to preserve nutrients.
Should I buy organic Fish for my baby?
Organic Fish isn't strictly necessary for babies, but some families prefer to reduce pesticide exposure. Wash conventional produce thoroughly. Variety and freshness matter most.
How should I introduce Fish for the first time?
Offer a small amount of Fish in an age-appropriate texture when your baby is hungry but not starving, ideally early in the day so you can watch for any reactions over several hours.
Is Fish a good finger food for babies?
Fish is often served pureed or mashed at first. As your baby develops dexterity, you can offer it as finger food in soft, manageable pieces.
What foods pair well with Fish for baby?
Fish pairs well with cooked grains like rice or quinoa, soft vegetables like sweet potato and broccoli, and healthy fats to round out a balanced baby meal.
Should I cook Fish before serving it to my baby?
Yes. Cook Fish until tender and easily mashable before serving it to your baby. Steaming, boiling, or roasting softens it enough to be safe.
How much Fish can a baby eat?
There's no fixed amount. Start with 1-2 tablespoons of Fish from around 6 months and let your baby regulate intake. Breast milk or formula remains the main source of nutrition in the first year.
Should I peel or remove the pit from Fish for my baby?
For Fish, peeling or pitting is usually not required, but wash it well and serve in a size and texture safe for your baby.
How should I store Fish fresh for my baby?
Store fresh Fish in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator crisper drawer, depending on the food. Wash just before preparing and use it when ripe and firm for the best quality for your baby.
Safety tips
- ✓Check very carefully for bones — remove every one before serving.
- ✓Cook fish thoroughly until it flakes; no raw fish (sushi/sashimi) or smoked fish (too salty) for babies.
- ✓Introduce fish as an allergen — a small amount first, watching for any reaction (rash, swelling, vomiting).
- ✓Choose low-mercury fish; avoid shark, swordfish, and marlin, and limit oily fish to about twice a week.
- ✓Avoid salty, battered, or breaded shop-bought fish; offer plain cooked fish.
- ✓Flake into soft, small pieces appropriate for your baby's stage.
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verifiedSources & References
This guide is informed by current guidelines from leading health organizations: