A shellfish is an aquatic creature with an exterior that resembles a shell and lives in freshwater and saltwater. When can babies eat shellfish–is a question many parents have. Although adding shellfish to a baby’s diet might be beneficial for their health, it can also trigger allergies since they can be contaminated with hazardous materials such as cadmium and mercury. These creatures are divided into mollusks and crustaceans and are rich in micronutrients, protein, and healthy fats, which can help support a baby’s development and growth. In this post, we tell you about the nutritional value of shellfish, when to introduce it to your baby, how to safely consume it, and points to consider when feeding it to your baby.
When Can Babies Eat Shellfish?
Some experts suggest feeding well-cooked shellfish once the baby is older than six months and has started consuming other solids, such as cereals, grains, poultry, and meat. However, some recommend delaying it up to 9 to 12 months due to its potential to cause allergies (1). Consult a pediatrician and know the right age to start feeding shellfish to your baby, especially if you have a family history of food allergies.
Nutritional Value Of Shellfish
The nutritional value varies across the types of shellfish (crustaceans and mollusks). The commonly consumed crustaceans are crab, crayfish, lobster, shrimp, krill, and prawn, while widely consumed mollusks are clams, scallops, oysters, and mussels (2). Below is an approximate nutritional composition of various shellfish types (cooked) with a serving size of three ounces (85g) (3). Source: FDA
Possible Health Benefits Of Shellfish For Babies And Toddlers
Different shellfish have different health benefits. Some of the common ones are: Regular consumption of shellfish may have cardioprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral benefits, as well.
Possible Side Effects Of Shellfish In Infants
Just like any other food, shellfish has its share of potential side effects for babies. See a doctor promptly if you notice any allergy symptoms or if your baby seems unwell after consuming shellfish. The best way to avoid these adverse effects is to follow FDA advisories on fish and shellfish selection, storage, and cooking.
Tips To Include Shellfish In Your Baby’s Diet
The following tips could help reduce the risk of adverse effects of shellfish consumption among babies.
