Mackerel (North Atlantic)

North Atlantic mackerel may be introduced as soon as your baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age. Keep in mind, however, there are many species of mackerel in the sea, and not all are safe for babies to eat.

Recommended Guide: Fish for Babies

It depends on the species. Mackerel, like all ocean fish, contain toxins from pollution, including traces of mercury, which can have devastating effects on the central nervous and neurological systems, and particularly so in babies and young children.

North Atlantic mackerel have a big advantage over their cousins: far less mercury.  When served in moderation, North Atlantic mackerel (also called Atlantic chub, Boston mackerel, Norwegian mackerel, Scottish mackerel, and tinker) can be a healthy addition to your baby’s diet. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, including the critical docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, North Atlantic mackerel helps to support your baby’s cardiovascular health, cell growth, and eyesight during this early stage of life. The fish also contains B-vitamins to provide energy and selenium to power organ function and protect against toxins.

North Atlantic mackerel is often sold in cans and is a fantastic substitute for canned tuna, which contains more than double the amount of mercury. If you can’t find North Atlantic mackerel, opt for Pacific chub. It’s not as low in mercury as its North Atlantic cousin, but within an acceptable range for babies and lower in mercury than canned light tuna.

Avoid king mackerel and Spanish mackerel. These species from the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and South Atlantic Ocean contain high levels of mercury and are not safe for babies.

As you do with all fish, consider where and how mackerel were caught when purchasing for your baby. A widely respected go-to resource, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, points out that North Atlantic mackerel are overfished and often caught using methods that put other oceanic species in danger, with no regulatory initiatives to replenish fish stocks.

★Tip: When shopping for canned mackerel, look for “low-sodium” or “no salt added” options in BPA-free cans. Brands that fit the bill include Season Brand and Vital Choice.

Unlike shrimp and shellfish, mackerel is not a common choking hazard for babies and children. That said, fish bones do present a risk, so be sure to remove any lingering bones before serving mackerel and stay close during mealtime to watch as your baby eats.

For more information, visit our section on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with common choking hazards.

Yes. Finned fish like mackerel are a top food allergen. However, it’s estimated that only 1% of Americans are allergic to finned fish. As with all new foods, introduce mackerel by serving a scant amount and watch closely as your baby eats. If there is no adverse reaction, gradually increase the quantity over future servings.

If you have a family history of allergies or suspect your baby may be allergic to fish, make an appointment with an allergist before introducing mackerel.