
Can be served at 6–18 months when prepared as described below. Fine to serve from 18 months, prepared as described below. Watch for: salt. Low choking risk. Allergen risk is very high (5/5): start with a small amount and watch for a reaction.
Last reviewed: October 2026
Prepare with care
Only if prepared without added salt
NHS advises avoiding stock cubes and not adding salt to food or cooking water for babies, as their kidneys cannot process excess salt.
Introduce shellfish stock in small amounts mixed into purees or soft foods, watching for any signs of an allergic reaction as shellfish is a common allergen. Always strain the stock thoroughly to ensure no shell pieces remain, and use stock prepared without added salt, avoiding commercial stock cubes or high-sodium products.
Prepare with care
Only if prepared without added salt
NHS advises avoiding stock cubes and added salt for infants under 12 months; from 12 months, small amounts of salt are tolerated, though low-sodium stock remains recommended.
Shellfish stock can be mixed into soups, stews, grains, or sauces as a flavorful cooking liquid. Ensure the stock is strained thoroughly to remove any shell fragments. For infants under 12 months, continue to use stock made without added salt, avoiding commercial stock cubes.
Fine to serve
Suitable at this age with the usual preparation described below.
For older toddlers, shellfish stock can be used as a flavorful base in family meals such as risottos, soups, and pasta sauces. Always check that it is well strained and fully cooked. Low-salt preparations remain the healthiest choice.
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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:
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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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