Fish sauce for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve fish sauce to your baby, by age.

Umami-BoostingAdds FlavorFish Protein SourceMineral ContentLow-FatHigh in Sodium

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

High (4/5)

Choking Hazard

Very Low (1/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Fish sauce to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

No cutting required for fish sauce, as it is a liquid condiment. For infants 6-9 months, use a very minimal amount (a drop or two, less than 1 ml or 1/5 teaspoon) stirred into well-cooked, age-appropriate foods for flavor enhancement only. Avoid direct spoon feeding of fish sauce as it can be salty and intense for young taste buds. Always check for fish or shellfish allergy risk, and consult your pediatrician before introducing.

Serving Instructions

At this age, fish sauce should only be used to flavor foods in the smallest possible amount—no more than 1 ml (1/5 teaspoon) per meal, always mixed into other fully cooked ingredients such as rice, vegetables, or purees. Ensure the dish also contains sources of iron (such as lentils or meats) and veggies for fiber and vitamins. Fish sauce is high in sodium, so limit use strictly and prioritize unsalted foods for most meals. Introduce only if there is no family history of fish or shellfish allergy, and always consult your pediatrician first.

How to Serve Fish sauce to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

As your child’s palate expands, fish sauce can be gradually introduced as a flavor enhancer in family meals. Continue to use sparingly—no more than a few drops (up to 2 ml or 1/2 teaspoon) mixed into dishes such as rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. Avoid serving it on its own. Since it is high in sodium, keep portions very limited. Always monitor for allergic reactions, especially if there is a family history of fish or shellfish allergies.

Serving Instructions

Offer fish sauce as a component of family-style dishes. Add up to 2 ml (1/2 teaspoon) well-mixed into meals like rice, stews, or noodle dishes. Balance the meal by ensuring it contains a protein (to support growth) and vegetables for vitamins and fiber. Avoid offering salty foods elsewhere in the meal. Monitor for allergies, as fish sauce often contains both fish and shellfish extracts.

How to Serve Fish sauce to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

Older toddlers may enjoy a wider range of family meals flavored with a small amount of fish sauce. Continue to use very sparingly—up to 2-3 ml (about 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon) per serving, mixed well into dishes. Fish sauce is very salty, so be mindful not to exceed small quantities, especially if other salty foods are served. Always stir into cooked foods and never serve directly. Continue to monitor for allergic responses.

Serving Instructions

Children 18 months and older may enjoy a variety of family meals with a dash of fish sauce. Use up to 2-3 ml (1/2–3/4 teaspoon) per serving, ensuring it is well-distributed in the dish. Opt for meals that include whole grains, lean protein, and plenty of vegetables. Due to the high sodium content, minimize use and avoid adding extra salt to the food. Always be aware of allergy risks.