Cod

Freshly cooked cod may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months old. Avoid serving your baby salted, cured, or smoked cod, all of which contain high levels of sodium, which, in excess is not healthy for babies (or adults).

Recommended Guide: Fish for Babies

Yes, in moderation. While cod is rich in vitamin B12 and iodine, an essential nutrient for brain development and immune system support, it has moderate levels of mercury, a toxic metal present in nearly all fish.

As with all cold-water fish, cod contains vitamin D, a bone-building nutrient that is commonly deficient in babies. Finally, cod is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which are essential building blocks for cell growth and protection.

When it comes to purchasing fish, it is best to choose low-mercury fish that have been line-caught. Look first for Pacific cod from Alaska, and if Atlantic cod is the only option available, try to purchase line-caught or fish farmed in indoor recirculating tanks.

No. Cod is not a common choking hazard, though bones in fresh fish can present a hazard if not removed. To minimize the risk, be sure to pick out any lingering bones before serving. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment, stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals.

For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

Yes. Finned fish is a common food allergen, and cod is among the most common, along with halibut, salmon and tuna. While it’s estimated that allergy to finned fish impacts less than 1 percent of people in the United States, the allergy is typically lifelong. About 40 percent of people with finned fish allergies don’t experience their first allergic reaction until adulthood.

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