Anchovy

Fish

Last updated July 5, 2026. Can I Feed This safety guide guidance is checked against public pediatric and health sources, with source links included where available.

Written By

Tummi Food Team

Food prep and safety guidance

Medically Reviewed By

Andria ProcopioandArefa Mohamed

Pediatric feeding and development specialists

Direct answer

Can babies eat Anchovy?

Yes, cooked anchovies may be introduced around 6 months when baby is ready for solids, offering low mercury, nutrient-rich fish in age-appropriate preparations.

6+months Serve Age: Most babies start solids around 6 months once they show readiness signs. Match the texture and serving size to your baby's skills.
How to serve
Allergens: Anchovy is flagged for fish. Introduce common allergens in a baby-safe form and follow your clinician's advice if your baby is higher risk.
Details
12345 1 Choking Risk: Lower choking risk when served in the right texture. Always supervise meals and adjust the shape for your baby.
Risk notes

This guide is for everyday food prep questions. Ask your pediatrician about medical concerns, feeding delays, allergy plans, or serious reactions.

How Do You Serve Anchovy?

1
Cook anchovy until opaque and flaky; remove every bone and discard before serving.
2
Flake or finely mash the fillet into very soft, small pieces and mix with grains, cooked vegetables, or plain yogurt to create an easy-to-swallow texture.
3
Use fresh anchovy or a no-salt-added option; if using canned, rinse well to reduce sodium and avoid added salt in the baby's portion.
4
Offer a small taste first and wait 2–3 days to watch for any allergic reaction; always supervise during feeding.
5
Store leftovers in the refrigerator and use within 24 hours, reheating until steaming hot before cooling to a safe eating temperature.

Is Anchovy a Common Allergen?

Dairy

Egg

Fish

Gluten

Tree Nut

Peanut

Sesame

Shellfish

Soy

Anchovies are a fish and a known fish allergen—avoid them for any child with a fish allergy. They appear whole, as fillets or mashed into anchovy paste and are commonly used in sauces (e.g., Caesar dressing, Worcestershire), so always check labels and restaurant ingredients for hidden anchovy. Anchovies are often cured/salted and packed in oil; cured fish can have higher histamine (scombroid) levels and are high in sodium. Processing and packaging can cause cross-contact with other seafood.

Is Anchovy a Choking Hazard?

Very Low Choking Risk

Anchovies generally present a low choking risk when canned or well-cooked because the canning/cooking process softens bones, but bones in freshly cooked anchovies can pose a higher risk. Any food can cause choking, so stay within arm’s reach during meals and be prepared to respond if your child gags or shows signs of choking. Learn infant choking first-aid and be extra vigilant when offering any fish with small bones.

Have More Questions?

Yes. Anchovies, when cooked, can be introduced around 6 months of age as part of a balanced diet, considering they are low in mercury and provide essential nutrients.

Yes. Anchovies are a healthy addition for babies as they are rich in omega-3s, iron, and other nutrients that support growth and brain development.

Yes. Finned fish like anchovies are common allergens, so introduce cautiously and observe for any allergic reactions, especially if there's a family history of allergies.

No. Properly prepared anchovies, especially canned ones with softened bones, pose a low choking risk when served appropriately for a baby's age and eating skills.

None. You can serve anchovies on a baby’s tray or plate, using fingers or a spoon, depending on their developmental stage and comfort with utensils.

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Sources

EDF Seafood Selector — Pocket Seafood Selector (Anchovy) edf.org
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — FDA Issues Revised 'Advice about Eating Fish' (July 2019) fda.gov
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — Mercury Levels in Commercial Fish and Shellfish (1990-2012) downloads.regulations.gov
Kuratko et al. (2013) — The Relationship of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) with Learning and Behavior in Healthy Children (Nutrients) mdpi.com
Food Allergy Research & Education — Fish (Fish allergy) foodallergy.org
U.S. Food & Drug Administration — Fish and Fishery Products Hazards and Controls (includes scombrotoxin guidance) fda.gov