Fish and shellfish are considered two of the top nine allergens. So, of course, the idea of giving your baby seafood can be daunting. But the latest data shows that feeding babies as young as four months old allergenic foods – and feeding these foods frequently – can significantly reduce your child’s risk of developing an allergy.
In our Children & Food Allergies series, let’s break down everything parents need to know about shellfish and how to safely introduce this nutrient-dense food category to their children.
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For allergy introduction, I usually recommend salmon or branzino for fish, and shrimp for shellfish. Salmon or branzino can be pureed or fork mashed. Shrimp should be food processed into extremely tiny flakes as to not pose a choking hazard.
While there are no official guidelines on how much to offer each day, based on research studies and my client work, I recommend:
- Day 1: 1 teaspoon
- Day 2: 2 teaspoons
- Day 3: 1 tablespoon
While some children can outgrow allergies, typically a child with a fish or shellfish allergy will have it for the rest of their lives. The good news is that, unlike ingredients such as milk and egg, seafood isn’t typically hidden in foods, which makes it easier to avoid and less likely to accidentally ingest.
Before you introduce your child to seafood, it’s imperative you discuss this with your pediatrician, especially if there is a family history of food allergies.
It’s also important to know the signs of an allergic reaction. In babies, a seafood allergy can include gastrointestinal reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and cramping; respiratory reactions like shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis; and skin conditions such as hives.
