How to Introduce Shrimp to Baby
Introducing shrimps to a young baby can be a nutrient rich and delicious way to introduce finger foods. With its soft texture and mild flavor, many parents are eager to add shrimps to their baby’s diet. There are some important considerations when feeding shrimps to your baby.
Ensuring Safety when Introducing Shrimp
Due to their size and shape, shrimp can pose a choking hazard to infants. Start with small amounts and offer cooked shrimp that has been cut into very small pieces. Monitor your baby while he’s eating. You can also offer it as a puree by mashing the shrimp or grinding it in a food processor.
Preparing Shrimp for Baby
To reduce the overall sodium content, avoid pre-seasoned shrimp. You can boil or sauté the shrimp and add spices yourself to control the flavor.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Choose shrimps that are wild-caught. Be sure to select that are market-ready. Avoid any with an unpleasant smell or slimy texture, and look for those that are firm. The head, shell, and tail must be removed before serving shrimps to your baby.
Serving Suggestions
- Mix sautéed shrimp with mashed sweet potatoes and a little melted butter.
- Puree cooked shrimp with your baby’s favorite vegetables.
- Mix cooked shrimp with cooked brown rice for a complete meal.
- Dip boiled shrimp into plain yogurt or hummus for a tasty snack.
Shrimps can be a healthy and delicious option when making homemade baby food. Be sure to follow these guidelines to make sure that your baby enjoys this wonderful treat in a safe and healthful way.