Introducing solid foods: including salmon in baby's diet

Salmon is a true powerhouse of benefits for toddlers.  Its added bonus is its omega - 3 content (EPA and DHA): these essential fatty acids are indeed vital for the proper development of the baby 's brain, nervous system , and vision . But salmon does n't stop there !  It 's a fish rich in high - quality protein — essential for muscle and cell growth—as well as vitamins, minerals , selenium , and iodine . It therefore contains everything needed to support immunity , cognitive function, and bone development. And to top it all off, salmon is one of the easiest foods for babies to digest. It would be a shame to miss out on it .   😊

How to cook salmon for baby  ?  

As is often the case with baby food, the key is simplicity. Don't try to make things complicated or go off in all directions.  Respect the product and it should work.  When it comes to cooking , cooked or smoked salmon is forbidden during the weaning process. Fish should always be cooked thoroughly, but also prepared gently.  Steaming, poaching, or baking salmon without added fat . For this recipe, your challenge will obviously be to flake the flesh perfectly .  No edge should escape your notice . Once this task is accomplished, you can mash or blend the salmon depending on your baby's age (a smooth puree from 6 months, then soft pieces around 9-12 months). As always, we'll leave out the salt.  However, you can add a drizzle of vegetable oil ( rapeseed or flaxseed) just before serving. And to mix things up , do n't hesitate to combine salmon and vegetables in a revisited shepherd's pie style .  Carrots, sweet potatoes , and zucchini will be like fish in water next to the salmon .  !   

Oily fish vs. lean fish: when to introduce oily fish into a baby's diet?  

Wondering at what age your baby can eat salmon? Good news: salmon, like other fish, can be offered from 6 months, at the start of weaning. However, official recommendations suggest starting with lean fish (pollock, cod, whiting, etc.), which are considered milder and easier for toddlers to digest. Once these first fish are well tolerated, you can introduce oily fish, such as salmon, trout, or sardines, which are rich in beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. 
Ideally, you should alternate between lean and oily fish, offering one portion of each type per week. This allows you to vary your baby's nutritional intake while gradually introducing them to different tastes and textures.

What types of salmon are best for babies?  

Let's not kid ourselves, not all salmon is created equal. For your children, we recommend choosing wild salmon (for example, from Alaska) or farmed salmon with organic and/or Label Rouge certification . When it comes to preparation, always cook the fish thoroughly. It's recommended that young children eat no more than one serving of oily fish per week . Specific amounts of animal protein are recommended depending on age:

And what about allergies in all of this?  

We love fish… but it's also one of the most common allergens. Don't panic! For a smooth introduction, it's best to follow the golden rule: offer it alone, or with a food your baby already knows. The idea? To be able to easily spot any potential reaction (small bumps, redness, digestive issues, etc.). 
And if there's a history of allergies (asthma, eczema, intolerances, etc.) in the family, don't hesitate to talk to your pediatrician before serving the first salmon fillet. Prevention is better than cure ! 

What other fish can be introduced into my baby's diet?  

Salmon are not the only ones to bite the hook  babies​​​​  Lean fish such as pollock , whiting, cod and  Sole can be offered from 6 months onwards . Among oily fish, sardines, mackerel , and trout are also excellent choices. Finally, saithe or halibut can also satisfy your baby. However, avoid species with high mercury content, such as swordfish, bluefin tuna, or pike, especially before the age of 3. Let's meet at the market or fish auction to find fresh fish.  ? 

In conclusion  

Salmon can be introduced from the start of your baby's weaning process. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals, it supports brain, nervous system, and immune system development. Opt for gentle cooking methods (steaming, baking, poaching), without salt, and with a texture appropriate for your baby's age. Choose wild salmon or organic/Label Rouge certified salmon whenever possible. Other lean fish (pollock, cod, etc.) or oily fish (trout, sardines, etc.) are also suitable, but avoid those high in mercury (bluefin tuna, swordfish, etc.) before the age of 3.