The answer is yes!
This is our 10 month old son, Vinnie, and he LOVES Copper River salmon! Here he's eating Minced Copper River sockeye salmon (cooked in pan on stovetop, medium heat with a little avocado oil sprayed into pan before adding fish) blended with cooked rice and steamed broccoli.
Our son loves fish and luckily wasn't allergic. Keep these important considerations in mind when introducing fish to your baby:
Your baby's age
It's generally recommended to introduce fish to a baby's diet around 6-9 months of age when they start to eat solid foods. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new food to your baby's diet to ensure it's appropriate for their age and development.
What's the best type of fish for babies
Opt for mild, low-mercury fish for babies. Salmon is often a good choice and it might be the best fish for babies because it's rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has a mild flavor. Remember to always for for wild salmon like Copper River sockeye salmon, which has the highest level of omega-3 fatty acids and is the best fish to offer to your most prized possession! Other suitable options include wild Alaskan sablefish and wild Alaskan halibut.
On the other hand you should be careful with fish that eat a lot of other fish and tend to live longer, such as shark or swordfish.
Texture and temperature
Fish should be well-cooked (USDA recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit) to kill any potential harmful bacteria. It's also good to use sushi grade fish.
For texture you want fish that stays flaky to reduce the risk of choking. You can steam, bake, or poach fish and then mash or finely shred it to make it more manageable for your baby. This is why we love the Minced Copper River sockeye because it's already shredded. This is beautiful meat scraped by hand from the backbone of each salmon.
Allergies
Fish can be an allergenic food, so it's essential to watch for any signs of an allergic reaction when introducing it to your baby's diet. Common symptoms of food allergies include hives, itching, swelling, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect an allergy, consult your pediatrician.
Bone Removal
Be diligent about removing any bones from the fish to prevent choking hazards.
Portion Size
Start with small portions and observe how your baby reacts to the new food. Gradually increase the portion size as your baby becomes accustomed to eating fish.
Frequency
You can gradually increase the frequency of fish consumption as your baby grows and develops.
Remember that every baby is different, and it's crucial to follow your pediatrician's guidance on introducing new foods to ensure your baby's dietary needs are met and to address any specific concerns or allergies your child may have. But overall fish, especially salmon, are excellent for babies!
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