Protein

Anchovies

Anchovies are tiny, nutrient-packed fish that can be a wonderful addition to your baby's diet. They're naturally rich in protein for growth and contain important nutrients like vitamin D for strong bones¹ and iron for healthy brain development². Their soft texture and savory flavor make them easy to incorporate into various baby foods.

PPippin Feeding TeamReviewed by feeding specialists · Updated July 2026

First age6m+

CategoryProtein

Common allergenYes

Choking riskLow

When can babies eat Anchovies?

You can introduce anchovies around 6 months when starting solids, but many parents wait until 8-9 months when babies are more accustomed to different flavors and textures.

Storage tip

Store canned anchovies in the refrigerator after opening and use within 2-3 days. For fresh anchovies, use within 1-2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

How to serve Anchovies by age

9 to 12 months

For babies 9-12 months, mash boneless, skinless anchovies into a smooth paste or finely chop into tiny, soft pieces. Mix with mashed vegetables or grains to create a manageable texture that's easy to pick up with fingers or a spoon.

Choose low-sodium anchovies and rinse well to reduce salt content.
Remove all bones by checking carefully or using pre-boned varieties.
Combine with avocado or sweet potato for a creamy, palatable mix.
Serve in small portions (1-2 teaspoons) to monitor for allergies.
Offer on a pre-loaded spoon or as a spread on soft toast strips.

12 months +

For toddlers 12 months and up, flake anchovies into small, soft pieces or incorporate them into dishes like pasta sauces or casseroles. They can handle more texture, so you can offer slightly larger bits as they develop chewing skills.

Use anchovies to flavor homemade sauces instead of adding salt.
Mix into scrambled eggs or rice dishes for added nutrition.
Offer as part of finger foods like fish cakes or patties.
Encourage self-feeding with utensils to practice coordination.
Pair with colorful veggies to make meals appealing and balanced.

Safety & allergens

Choking risk: Low

Anchovies are naturally soft when cooked or canned, making them low choking risk. For extra safety, mash them thoroughly for younger babies and ensure any bones are completely removed. Always supervise your baby during meals.

Common allergen

Fish allergies affect about 0.5-0.6% of children, with anchovies being one of the fish types that can trigger reactions³.

Watch for symptoms:

Hives
Swelling
Digestive upset
Difficulty breathing

Introduce a tiny amount (about ¼ teaspoon) and watch for reactions for 3-5 days. Since fish is a common allergen, consult your pediatrician before introducing if there's a family history of allergies⁴. Start with well-cooked or canned anchovies as they may be less allergenic than raw fish.

Vitamins & minerals

Anchovies provide excellent nutrition for growing babies. They're packed with vitamin D, which helps your baby's body absorb calcium for strong bones and teeth¹. The iron content supports healthy brain development and prevents anemia², while selenium acts as an important antioxidant⁵.

Vitamins

Vitamin DVitamin B12Vitamin B3

Minerals

CalciumIronSeleniumPhosphorusSodium

Nutritional synergy

Pair anchovies with vitamin C-rich foods like tomatoes or bell peppers to enhance iron absorption⁶. The healthy fats in olive oil or avocado also help your baby absorb the fat-soluble vitamins in anchovies.

Common questions

How do I choose the best anchovies for my baby?

Look for canned anchovies packed in water or olive oil with no added salt. Fresh anchovies should have clear eyes, shiny skin, and a fresh ocean smell. Avoid any with a strong fishy odor.

What if my baby doesn't like the strong flavor?

Start with a tiny amount mixed into foods your baby already enjoys, like mashed potatoes or pasta sauce. The strong flavor can be overwhelming at first, but many babies grow to enjoy it when introduced gradually.

Are canned anchovies safe for babies?

Yes, canned anchovies are safe when prepared properly. Rinse them well to reduce sodium content, remove any visible bones, and mash thoroughly. The canning process makes them very soft and easy for babies to digest.