Safety Information
How to Serve Dried Anchovies to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6–9 months, dried anchovies must be prepared very carefully due to their small, firm texture and salty profile. Thoroughly rinse anchovies under running water to remove excess salt. Next, boil or steam until very soft, then finely mash or grind them into a powder or smooth paste. This reduces choking risk and makes them easy to mix into purees, rice porridge, or soft vegetables. Always start with a tiny amount, such as 1–2 grams (about 1/4–1/2 teaspoon), mixed into other foods. Never offer whole or broken pieces, as these pose a high choking hazard.
Serving Instructions
At this early stage, dried anchovies should only be used in very small amounts as a flavor and nutrition booster, never as a main protein. After rinsing and cooking, mash or powder and mix 1–2 grams (1/4–1/2 tsp) into smooth rice porridge, thin vegetable puree, or soup. Dried anchovies are naturally high in sodium, so use sparingly and balance with low-salt foods and plenty of vegetables. Always watch for any allergic reactions or signs of difficulty swallowing. Combine with iron-rich foods such as lentils and vitamin C sources like broccoli for a balanced meal.
How to Serve Dried Anchovies to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
For 9–18 months, continue to rinse and cook dried anchovies to soften and remove excess salt. Once soft, finely chop or shred into very tiny pieces, or grind to a powder. Sprinkle moderate amounts (up to 3–4 grams or 1 teaspoon) over rice, pasta, or cooked vegetables. Watch closely as the texture can still pose a choking risk. If your child is not yet chewing well, stick to mashing or powdering. Avoid offering whole or large pieces until chewing develops further.
Serving Instructions
At this age, dried anchovies can be offered as a topping or mixed in with other soft foods. Use up to 3–4 grams (about 1 teaspoon) per meal, distributed among vegetables, grains, or eggs. Mix into omelets, rice, or pasta to boost flavor and nutrition. Continue to offer a variety of protein sources, and keep sodium intake low by combining with naturally low-salt foods. Be mindful of allergens and monitor for any chewing or swallowing challenges. Include vitamin C-rich foods to support iron absorption.
How to Serve Dried Anchovies to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
For children 18+ months, dried anchovies can be served in slightly larger, well-cooked pieces, provided your child can chew thoroughly and demonstrates good oral-motor skills. Always rinse and cook until soft to reduce both salt and choking risk. Cut into thin strips or very small bite-size pieces—aim for pieces no larger than 1 cm (about 1/2 inch). Continue to monitor your child during meals. Use anchovy powder as a savory seasoning or mix into rice balls, omelets, or pasta for extra nutrients.
Serving Instructions
For toddlers 18 months and older, dried anchovies can be incorporated in a variety of ways: as finely chopped pieces in rice balls, omelets, or stews, or used as a powder seasoning. Offer up to 5 grams (about 1½ teaspoons) per meal, ensuring pieces are soft and small (no larger than 1 cm/½ inch) to reduce choking risk. Continue to pair with a wide range of other proteins, grains, and plenty of produce. Avoid over-relying on salty ingredients, and offer water alongside meals. Observe for any sensitivity to fish or signs of chewing difficulties.
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