Safety Information
How to Serve Prawns to a 6–9 Months Old
How to Cut
For babies 6-9 months, prawns can be introduced if there is no family history of shellfish allergy, but only after consulting your pediatrician. Always use fully cooked prawns, and remove all shells, tails, and veins. Chop or finely mince prawn meat, then mash it thoroughly or blend with a little breast milk, formula, or water to achieve a smooth, puree-like texture. Avoid serving whole pieces, as the chewiness and shape can present a moderate choking hazard. Offer a small amount alongside iron-rich foods and soft vegetables to create a balanced meal.
Serving Instructions
At 6-9 months, serve prawn as a smooth puree or very finely mashed blend, ideally combined with foods high in vitamin C (like bell pepper or citrus fruit) to help with iron absorption. Portion size should be minimal—just 1-2 teaspoons (5-10g / 0.2-0.35 oz) at a time, always as part of a meal with other safe, soft foods high in iron and healthy fats. Even if tolerated, limit frequency to once per week for this age group unless otherwise guided by your healthcare provider.
How to Serve Prawns to a 9–18 Months Old
How to Cut
For toddlers 9-18 months, prawns should still be fully cooked, shell, tail, and vein removed. Chop prawns into tiny, soft pieces or shred them finely with your fingers to minimize choking risk. Serve them on their own, or mixed into soft foods like mashed vegetables, rice, or pasta. Avoid round or coin-shaped prawn slices and never offer whole prawns. Watch closely during meals and ensure the texture is soft and moist, not rubbery or chewy. Offer prawn in small portions (about 15-30g / 0.5-1 oz), as part of a varied meal with grains, vegetables, and healthy fats.
Serving Instructions
From 9-18 months, prawns can be offered chopped very finely or shredded and mixed into soft dishes. Offer a portion of 15-30g (0.5-1 oz) as part of a varied and balanced meal with grains, vegetables, and healthy oils or fats. Pairing with vitamin C-rich foods continues to support iron absorption. Limit prawn to once per week due to allergy risk. Observe for any signs of intolerance or allergic reaction after serving.
How to Serve Prawns to a 18+ Months Old
How to Cut
For children 18 months and older, prawns can be served in small, soft pieces, still ensuring no shell, tail, or vein remains. Larger pieces are suitable if your child has demonstrated reliable chewing and swallowing skills. You may offer diced or shredded prawn, or mix into casseroles, salads, or wraps with other soft and easy-to-chew foods. Always avoid giving whole prawns or rubbery textures. Offer portions of about 30-60g (1-2 oz) as part of a meal that includes vegetables, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. Continue to supervise during eating and encourage slow, mindful bites.
Serving Instructions
From 18 months onward, diced or shredded prawn can be part of the family meal. Offer 30-60g (1-2 oz) as part of a balanced plate with vegetables, a carbohydrate (like rice or pasta), and healthy fat sources. Continue to avoid whole prawns and monitor your child for safe swallowing. Maintain a varied diet and limit shellfish to once weekly unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider. Pair with citrus or tomatoes for a vitamin C boost, and always supervise.
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