Tuna
1 year and up
⚡ Quick answer
Because tuna is among the fish that accumulate mercury, it is not recommended in early infancy; after 12 months it may be given occasionally and in small amounts only from low-mercury 'light' (skipjack) canned tuna, while fresh or large tuna (bluefin) is kept much more limited.
How to serve it by age?
Drain and rinse unsalted 'light' tuna packed in water well; mash a small amount and mix it with vegetable puree or yogurt, giving it no more than a few times a month.
Add low-mercury light tuna to meals at most once a week in small portions; avoid salted and oily canned varieties.
Continue offering light tuna occasionally; keep high-mercury types such as fresh tuna, bluefin, and albacore (white) tuna limited in young children.
⚠️ 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 such as rash, vomiting, and swelling for 2-3 days.
🫁 Choking risk and safe serving
Canned tuna is soft but can be dry and lumpy; mash it well and give it moistened as a puree or with vegetables. If you use fresh tuna, remove the bones one by one.
📌 Watch out for these
- Tuna is among the fish that accumulate mercury; keep the amount and frequency limited in young children.
- Prefer low-mercury 'light' (skipjack) canned tuna; delay fresh/large tuna (bluefin) and albacore (white) tuna.
- Avoid salted and oily canned varieties; choose the one packed in water and rinse it well.
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.