Anchovy

Fish

Is Anchovy Safe for Babies?

Yes, cooked anchovies may be introduced around 6 months when baby is ready for solids, offering low mercury, nutrient-rich fish in age-appropriate preparations.

Is my baby ready for Anchovy?

Yes, butthere are some things to know

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At a Glance

Is Anchovy Iron Rich?

Anchovies provide a noticeable boost of dietary iron — about 2.7 mg in a 3-ounce (85 g) serving — which helps the body make healthy red blood cells. Because their iron comes from animal tissue, it is more readily absorbed and makes anchovies a good iron source.

Is Anchovy an Allergen?

Anchovies can trigger allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to fish proteins like parvalbumin. They are also rich in omega-3 and high in protein, which support heart health and help build strong bones.

How Do You Serve Anchovy?

1
Cook anchovy until opaque and flaky; remove every bone and discard before serving.
2
Flake or finely mash the fillet into very soft, small pieces and mix with grains, cooked vegetables, or plain yogurt to create an easy-to-swallow texture.
3
Use fresh anchovy or a no-salt-added option; if using canned, rinse well to reduce sodium and avoid added salt in the baby's portion.
4
Offer a small taste first and wait 2–3 days to watch for any allergic reaction; always supervise during feeding.
5
Store leftovers in the refrigerator and use within 24 hours, reheating until steaming hot before cooling to a safe eating temperature.

Is Anchovy a Common Allergen?

Dairy

Egg

Fish

Gluten

Tree Nut

Peanut

Sesame

Shellfish

Soy

Anchovies are a fish and a known fish allergen—avoid them for any child with a fish allergy. They appear whole, as fillets or mashed into anchovy paste and are commonly used in sauces (e.g., Caesar dressing, Worcestershire), so always check labels and restaurant ingredients for hidden anchovy. Anchovies are often cured/salted and packed in oil; cured fish can have higher histamine (scombroid) levels and are high in sodium. Processing and packaging can cause cross-contact with other seafood.

What Nutrients Does Anchovy Have?

Anchovies are nutrient-dense for babies: small, low‑mercury fish that provide protein, healthy fats (especially DHA omega‑3), iron, zinc, choline, and vitamins B6, B12, and E—nutrients that support brain and vision development, growth, red blood cell formation, and immunity. They can be offered from about 6 months when cooked and deboned (or as softened canned filets later); including anchovies a few times weekly as part of varied fish intake helps supply DHA and iron that are particularly beneficial in infancy. Cautions: preserved anchovies are often high in salt so serve sparingly and consider rinsing or mixing into other foods to reduce sodium; watch for finned fish allergy and avoid poorly stored fish to reduce risk of scombroid poisoning.

Is Anchovy a Choking Hazard?

Very Low Choking Risk

Anchovies generally present a low choking risk when canned or well-cooked because the canning/cooking process softens bones, but bones in freshly cooked anchovies can pose a higher risk. Any food can cause choking, so stay within arm’s reach during meals and be prepared to respond if your child gags or shows signs of choking. Learn infant choking first-aid and be extra vigilant when offering any fish with small bones.

Have More Questions?

Yes. Anchovies, when cooked, can be introduced around 6 months of age as part of a balanced diet, considering they are low in mercury and provide essential nutrients.

Yes. Anchovies are a healthy addition for babies as they are rich in omega-3s, iron, and other nutrients that support growth and brain development.

Yes. Finned fish like anchovies are common allergens, so introduce cautiously and observe for any allergic reactions, especially if there's a family history of allergies.

No. Properly prepared anchovies, especially canned ones with softened bones, pose a low choking risk when served appropriately for a baby's age and eating skills.

None. You can serve anchovies on a baby’s tray or plate, using fingers or a spoon, depending on their developmental stage and comfort with utensils.

Is Anchovy safe for your baby?

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Sources

EDF Seafood Selector — Pocket Seafood Selector (Anchovy) edf.org
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — FDA Issues Revised 'Advice about Eating Fish' (July 2019) fda.gov
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — Mercury Levels in Commercial Fish and Shellfish (1990-2012) downloads.regulations.gov
Kuratko et al. (2013) — The Relationship of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) with Learning and Behavior in Healthy Children (Nutrients) mdpi.com
Food Allergy Research & Education — Fish (Fish allergy) foodallergy.org
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — Fish and Fishery Products Hazards and Controls (includes scombrotoxin guidance) fda.gov