Dried Anchovies for Babies
Can be served at every age in a safe size and texture, as described below. Watch for: salt. Choking risk is high (4/5). Allergen risk is high (4/5): start with a small amount and watch for a reaction.
Find recipes with Dried Anchovies in Dalo SolidsLast reviewed: October 2026
Safety Information
Always read the safety guidance before servingHow to Serve Dried Anchovies to a 6–9 Months Old
Milestones for 6–9 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly rinsed, cooked until soft, and finely mashed or ground into a powder
The CDC notes that fish bones and hard foods are choking hazards, meaning dried anchovies must be cooked soft and finely mashed or ground into a powder. The NHS advises avoiding salty foods because babies' kidneys cannot process excess sodium.
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
Milestones for 9–12 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly rinsed, cooked until soft, and finely chopped or ground into a powder
The CDC identifies bones and hard textures as persistent choking hazards for young toddlers, requiring dried anchovies to be cooked soft and finely chopped or powdered. The NHS recommends limiting high-salt foods.
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
Milestones for 18–24 monthsPrepare with care
Only if thoroughly rinsed, cooked until soft, and cut into small bite-size pieces or ground into a powder
The CDC advises that bones and hard foods remain choking risks for children under 4 years, requiring fish to be softened and finely cut or powdered. The NHS recommends limiting salty foods in young children.
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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Important Safety Disclaimer
Every child develops chewing and swallowing skills at their own pace. The preparation methods shown are general guidelines; you must always evaluate your individual child's ability before serving. By offering this food, you agree to the following:
- Choking & Preparation: All foods can pose a choking hazard. You are strictly responsible for modifying food sizes and textures to match your child's skills. Always physically inspect this food for hidden hazards (e.g., bones, pits, seeds, splinters, or tough skins) before serving.
- Food Handling: Ensure all ingredients are properly washed, stored, and cooked to safe internal temperatures to prevent foodborne illness. Never serve raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs to an infant.
- Allergens: Introduce any new food one at a time. Observe your child closely for signs of an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing) and seek emergency medical care immediately if symptoms occur.
- Strict Supervision: 100% active, arm's-length adult supervision is required at all times while your child is eating or interacting with food.
- Talk to your pediatrician: If your baby has known allergies, was born prematurely, or has feeding difficulties, check with your pediatrician before introducing new foods.
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Age and preparation guidance informed by the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the World Health Organization's complementary feeding guidelines, ESPGHAN's (European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition) position paper on complementary feeding, and EFSA's (European Food Safety Authority) scientific opinion on the introduction of complementary feeding. This content is independently created by Dalo Baby for informational purposes only and does not imply endorsement by or affiliation with any of these organizations.
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