Food guide

Octopus

Octopus can be introduced around 6 months when properly cooked until tender. It's nutritious but has a chewy texture.

How to serve at this age

6-9 months: Puree or mince very finely. 9-12 months: Offer very small, tender pieces. 12-24 months: Serve small pieces in various dishes.

Nutrition

Excellent source of protein, iron, and B12. Contains selenium and omega-3s. Low in fat.

A note from the editors

Cook octopus low and slow for tender results. Pounding or freezing before cooking helps tenderize.

Good to know

Must be cooked until very tender - can be chewy. Cut into small pieces. Shellfish is a common allergen category. Molluscs are a separate EU-declared allergen from crustaceans, so a baby who tolerates prawns can still react to octopus, squid, mussels or clams. Introduce it on its own.

This guide is also published on Avo Parenting. Read the Octopus guide