Can Babies Eat Mackerel?

Mackerel is commonly applied to a great number of various species of pelagic fish. They can be found in temperate and tropical seas too, but they mostly live along the coast or along the offshore in the oceanic habitats.

Mackerels are consumed all over the world, and this is why they represent an important fish food. They are oily fish, so they are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Their flesh spoils quickly, and can cause food poisoning, so it is recommended for them to be consumed on the day of capture or be cured or refrigerated properly.

Mackerels are a good source of vitamin D, cobalamin, vitamin B6, magnesium, calcium, iron and vitamin A. They are high in sodium, and they also contain potassium and fats.

What Fish Is The Best For Babies?

Oily fish are great for babies, and mackerel alongside with salmon and sardines are a good choice for baby food. They contain low levels of mercury and some other chemicals, which once built up in the body can lead to health problems, so it is recommended to limit mackerel to one or two serving per week. They are easy to cook, easy to eat and are packed with nutrients. Pediatricians recommend introducing fish into a baby’s diet at the age of 6 months old.

Sweet Potato and Mackerel Bites

Ingredients: 2 fillets of fresh mackerel, 1 medium sweet potato, 2 finely sliced spring onions, 1 tbsp chopped dill, black pepper, 1 egg, juice of ½ lime or lemon.

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Lightly oil two baking trays and put the mackerel fillets skin side down on one of the trays and brush the tops of the fillets with a little olive oil, then bake for 10 minutes. In the meantime, coarsely grate the sweet potato with the skin and all, and mix with the rest of the ingredients. When the mackerel are cooked, and cooled down enough to handle easily, flake them apart, leaving the skin behind and checking for bones. Scrunch the mackerel into the sweet potato mix, using your hands. Scoop up a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball, by pressing it gently together with your hands. Flatten the ball and put it on the second baking tray. Bake for about 20 minutes, until golden, and turn if needed.