First foods database
🐟 Kippers for babies: when and how to serve it
Can babies eat kippers? Kippers are herring that have been split, salted and smoked, so they are high in salt. They are best saved for an occasional small taste from around 12 months, with fresh herring or mackerel offered to younger babies instead.
Good source of: Omega-3, Vitamin D, Protein, Vitamin B12
How to serve kippers by age
6 to 9 months
Not yet ideally. Under 12 months, your baby's kidneys cannot cope with much salt. Offer fresh, unsmoked oily fish such as herring, mackerel or salmon to get the same omega-3 benefits.
9 to 12 months
Still best to choose unsmoked oily fish. If kippers are on the family breakfast table, a very small, carefully boned taste mixed into potato or egg is the most to offer.
12 months and up
Offer a small portion of flaked kipper now and then, carefully boned, with scrambled egg, wholemeal toast or mashed potato. Soaking the cooked fillet briefly in hot water can draw out a little of the salt.
Choking safety
Kippers are full of fine, hair-like bones that are easy to miss. Flake the flesh slowly and feel each piece with your fingers. Remove the skin.
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
- Smoked fish is salty: small and occasional only.
- Oily fish: up to 2 portions a week for girls, up to 4 for boys.
- Fish is a common allergen.
Introducing it as an allergen
It contains fish, one of the 14 major allergens. How to introduce fish
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Questions parents ask
Can babies eat kippers?
Can babies eat kippers? Kippers are herring that have been split, salted and smoked, so they are high in salt. They are best saved for an occasional small taste from around 12 months, with fresh herring or mackerel offered to younger babies instead.
Why are kippers so salty?
They are cured in brine before being smoked, which adds a lot of salt. This is what gives them their strong flavour.
Are kippers a good source of omega-3?
Yes, they are an oily fish. Fresh herring gives the same omega-3 fats and vitamin D without the extra salt, so it is a better choice for babies.
Sources
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).