If you’re wondering how to serve tuna to your baby you’ve come to the right place. Tuna is a fantastic source of nutrients for your baby and should be on the list of the first 100 foods you offer to them. Find out here how to serve tuna to your baby, the answers to other commonly asked questions and a list of our favourite recipes that use tuna including tuna fritters, cheesy tuna pasta and tuna burgers!
How to Serve Tuna to Baby
Tuna is a fish that can be introduced to babies around 6 months old, but it’s important to choose low-mercury options and check for any family history of fish allergies. Here’s how you can serve tuna to your baby:
Preparation: Choose canned tuna in water or cooked fresh tuna. Ensure it is low in mercury and avoid any added salt or seasonings.
Mashing or Cutting: Mash the tuna with a fork or cut it into small, bite-sized pieces.
Serving: Offer the tuna to your baby directly. You can serve it as a standalone protein source or mix it with other soft foods like mashed vegetables or grains.
What are the Health Benefits of Offering Tuna to Your Baby?
Tuna is a nutrient-rich protein which boasts a whole load of health benefits for your baby. Key nutrients include:
- Full of healthy protein
- Good for the heart
- Tuna is a great source of Vitamin B12 and folate
- Contains Omega-3 fatty acids which aid growth and development
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Can I serve tuna to my baby as a finger food?
Tuna can be served to babies as long as it is cooked and flaked into small, soft pieces. Ensure there are no bones or skin present.
Should I mix tuna with other ingredients like mayonnaise or yogurt for my baby?
You can mix tuna with a small amount of mayonnaise or plain yogurt to add moisture and flavor. Start with a small quantity and monitor your baby’s response.
Can I incorporate tuna into dishes like pasta or sandwiches for my baby?
Yes, you can add cooked and flaked tuna to pasta dishes, salads, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps to provide protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Our Favourite Recipes for Babies Using Tuna
Author: Nicola Hughes
Nicola has weaned both of her boys using the baby led weaning method. She loves nothing better than creating simple recipes that anyone can recreate, using as few ingredients as possible. All of her recipes have been tried and tested by both Dexter and Felix and have their seal of approval!