Barramundi

Barramundi may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. If the family regularly has barramundi, consider opting for farm-raised barramundi, which tends to be lower in mercury than wild-caught.^{[1] [2]}

Barramundi, also known as Asian sea bass, is a species of fish native to the Indo-Pacific region, its range spanning from the waters off Southwest Asia to Northern Australia. Its name comes from the Australian Aboriginal language, meaning "large-scaled river fish." Known for its mild, buttery flavor and firm, meaty texture, it is incredibly versatile and can be baked, steamed, grilled, or pan-fried.

• Double-check for bones. Even if you purchase "boneless" fillets, always run your fingers over the cooked fish and flake it apart to check for any hidden bones before serving to a child.

• Make sure barramundi is fully cooked–the flesh will be completely opaque and flake apart easily with a fork.

No. Cooked barramundi, with bones and skin removed, presents a low risk when safely prepared for a child’s age and developmental ability, though, in theory, an individual could choke on any food. Note that fish bones do pose a risk of getting stuck in the mouth, throat, or esophagus. To reduce this risk, take care to remove the bones from cooked fish, and prepare and serve barramundi in an age-appropriate way as described in How to Serve. As always, create a safe eating environment and stay within reach of baby during meals. 

Learn the signs of choking and more about choking first aid in our free guides, Infant Rescue and Toddler Rescue.

Yes. Fish like barramundi are a common food allergen. ^[3] That said, about 40% of people with fish allergies don’t experience their first allergic reaction until adulthood.^[3] Unfortunately, most individuals who are allergic to fish do not outgrow the allergy.^[4]

Some individuals with fish allergy may react from inhaling proteins that become airborne when cooking fish.^{[5] [6]} If this is the case for baby, you may wish to avoid cooking fish in the household when baby is present.

Around 50% of individuals with one fish allergy will react to another fish as well. This is because the major allergen in fish, beta-parvalbumin, is present in most fish, regardless of species. Due to cross-contamination and mislabeling of fish, allergists often recommend that those allergic to one species of fish avoid all fish until meeting with an allergist to determine which might be safely introduced into the diet. This is an individualized recommendation, so be sure to confirm with your allergist before offering other fish if baby is allergic to barramundi.

Fish are a known trigger of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome, also known as FPIES. FPIES is a delayed allergy to food protein which causes the sudden onset of repetitive vomiting and diarrhea to begin a few hours after ingestion. Left untreated, the reaction can result in significant dehydration. Unlike other food allergens, FPIES to fish may not present until later in life, and tends to be life-long.

Lastly, a note on scombroid poisoning, which is sometimes mistaken for a fish allergy. Scombroid poisoning is a type of food poisoning that occurs when someone eats fish that has been improperly refrigerated. This allows a large amount of histamine to build up in the fish. When consumed, this large load of histamine can cause symptoms that mimic those of an allergic reaction, causing some people to believe that they have developed a fish allergy, even if they are not allergic. Ensuring that fish has been stored at adequately cool temperatures can minimize the risk of such a reaction.^[7]

If you suspect baby may be allergic to fish, make an appointment with an allergist before introducing barramundi. As with all common allergens, introduce barramundi in small amounts and watch closely as baby eats to see if any adverse reaction occurs. If all goes well, gradually increase the serving size over time.

Yes. Barramundi is a source of lean protein, which provides necessary building blocks for a baby's rapid growth and muscle development. It is particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, which are essential for brain development and visual health. Barramundi also offers vitamin D, phosphorus, and B vitamins, supporting bone health and cellular function.

Barramundi can contain low to moderate amounts of mercury and is best offered once a week or less.^{[8] [9] [10]} If the family regularly has barramundi, consider opting for farm-raised barramundi, which tends to be lower in mercury than wild-caught.^{[1] [2]} Mercury is a heavy metal that is present in most fish and shellfish to varying degrees and, when consumed in excess, can negatively impact a child’s neurodevelopment.^[11] That said, babies who are allowed to self-feed generally do not eat excessive amounts of any one food as they build the skills to eat solids. To minimize baby’s exposure to mercury from fish, serve fish as part of a balanced diet and, when possible, choose fish that are low in mercury, like arctic char, salmon, sardines, or North Atlantic mackerel.

It depends on how it is sourced. Farm-raised barramundi is typically fed a controlled diet and harvested younger, meaning it generally has very low levels of mercury and is considered safe for babies to consume regularly. Large, wild-caught barramundi, on the other hand, can contain moderate levels of mercury.^{[1] [2]}