Baby-led weaning · age-specific guide
Anchovy on toast for 12–24 months
Anchovy on toast can be introduced as soon as your baby is ready to start solid foods, which is typically around 6 months of age. Because anchovies contain fish, a common allergen, it's important to introduce them early and often as part of a varied diet. Choose anchovies packed in olive oil or water rather than heavily salted varieties, and rinse them well to reduce sodium content.
How to serve at 12–24 months
Serve small bites of toast with mashed or flaked anchovy as a finger food, or offer strips that toddlers can bite into themselves. Keep the toast slightly soft rather than overly crisp to avoid sharp edges, and ensure the anchovy topping remains moist. At this age, you can also incorporate anchovy into other dishes like pasta or rice, always checking for bones first.
Nutrition highlights
Anchovies are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain and eye development in babies. They also provide high-quality protein and are rich in iron, a critical nutrient for growing babies that supports healthy blood and cognitive development. Additionally, anchovies contain calcium and vitamin D, which contribute to strong bones and teeth.
Lower-risk serving reminders
Anchovy on toast carries a low choking risk when prepared appropriately because anchovies are naturally soft and break down easily in the mouth when fully cooked. The fish can be mashed or spread onto toast, which further reduces any risk, though care should be taken to check for any small bones.
Allergen information
Fish is a common allergen, and anchovies fall into this category. Introduce anchovy in small amounts at first and watch for signs of an allergic reaction, which may include hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Fish
Common questions
Do I need to remove bones from anchovies before serving them to my baby?
Tinned anchovies typically have very soft, edible bones that break down easily, but it's best to check and remove any you find to be safe. Fresh anchovies should have bones carefully removed before serving.
How do I reduce the salt content in anchovies for my baby?
Rinse tinned anchovies thoroughly under running water and pat them dry before serving, or choose anchovies packed in olive oil or water rather than brine. You can also soak them briefly in milk or water to draw out excess salt.
Can I serve raw anchovies to my baby?
No, always serve fully cooked anchovies to babies. Tinned anchovies are already cooked during processing and are safe to serve, whilst fresh anchovies should be cooked through until tender.
General feeding checklist
- Seat baby upright and stable for all meals.
- Model slow chewing and allow baby to control pace.
- Stop and reset if baby is upset, tired, or over-stuffed.
Readiness signs to check
- Baby can sit upright with minimal support during meals.
- Hands and mouth coordinate for bringing food to the mouth.
- Tongue-thrust reflex is reduced, so food is not immediately pushed out.
- Interest in self-feeding and opening mouth for food cues is visible.
Pause and seek advice if
- Coughing is persistent or distress does not settle quickly during meals.
- You notice repeated vomiting, rash, swelling, wheeze, or breathing changes after a food.
- Baby struggles with swallowing progression over multiple meals despite texture adjustments.
- There is a known medical condition affecting feeding, growth, or airway safety.
Other ages: 6–8 months · 9–11 months