Bonito
8 months and up
⚡ Quick answer
Bonito is a nutritious, omega-3-rich fish, but because it is in the tuna and mackerel family it can contain a moderate amount of mercury; with the bones removed and thoroughly cooked, it can be given occasionally and in limited amounts from 8 months.
How to serve it by age?
Remove the bones and cook thoroughly; mash it with vegetable or potato puree to a soft consistency, giving it no more than once a week.
Flake the boneless bonito and serve it in small pieces from the family meal; prefer small-sized bonito.
Continue offering baked or steamed bonito occasionally; avoid the large, older 'torik'.
⚠️ Allergen information
Fish is a major food allergen. Give it for the first time on its own and in a small amount, then watch for symptoms for a few days.
🫁 Choking risk and safe serving
Its bones pose choking and piercing risks; flake the flesh and carefully remove the bones.
📌 Watch out for these
- Bonito is in the tuna family; because of its moderate mercury level, keep the frequency limited (at most once a week).
- Prefer small-sized bonito; the large, older 'torik' accumulates more mercury.
- Remove the bones one by one, cook thoroughly, and do not add salt.
Related guides
⚕️ This page summarizes general pediatric recommendations; it is not medical advice. For babies with a history of allergies and whenever you are unsure, consult your pediatrician.