First foods database
🐚 Clams for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies eat clams? Yes, from about 6 months, as long as they are thoroughly cooked. Clams are a mollusc allergen and are very rich in iron and vitamin B12.
Good source of: Iron, Vitamin B12, Protein
How to serve clams by age
6 to 9 months
Cook clams until the shells open, discard any that do not open, remove the clam meat and finely chop or blend into pasta or rice. Blend chopped clam meat with pasta or rice for a smooth texture.
9 to 12 months
Offer finely chopped clam meat in pasta sauces or risotto. Clams with garlic and tomato through soft pasta is a lovely family meal.
12 months and up
Serve chopped clams in pasta or chowder. Clam chowder made with milk and potato (low salt) is a toddler favourite.
Choking safety
Clam meat is chewy, so chop it finely for babies. Remove all shells. Check carefully for any shell pieces, which are sharp.
Gagging is common and noisy while babies learn to eat. Choking is usually silent. Always stay with your baby while they eat, sitting upright. How to help a choking baby (NHS).
Good to know
- Never give raw shellfish.
- Molluscs are an allergen.
- Discard any clams that do not open.
Introducing it as an allergen
It contains molluscs, one of the 14 major allergens. How to introduce molluscs
Easy ideas
- Clams in tomato pasta
- Clam and rice
- Clam chowder (low salt)
Goes well with
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat clams?
Can babies eat clams? Yes, from about 6 months, as long as they are thoroughly cooked. Clams are a mollusc allergen and are very rich in iron and vitamin B12.
Are clams safe for babies?
Yes, when well cooked. Never raw. Cook them until the shells open.
Are clams high in iron?
Yes, clams are one of the richest sources of iron. They are also a good source of vitamin B12.
Sources
- NHS Start for Life: Weaning
- NHS: Fish and shellfish
- NHS: Foods to avoid giving babies and young children
- NHS: Food allergies in babies and young children
OBubba gives general information based on UK guidance. It is not medical advice and does not diagnose anything. Every baby is different. If your baby has a known allergy, severe eczema or a medical condition, speak to your doctor or health visitor before starting solids. Learn baby first aid, and in an emergency call your local emergency number (999 in the UK).