Food guide
Scallops
Scallops are a wonderful seafood option to introduce from 6 months, offering a mild, slightly sweet flavor and tender texture. They are a fantastic source of lean protein and essential nutrients for your growing baby. Remember to introduce common allergens one at a time and watch for reactions.
How to serve at this age
6-9 months: Cook scallops thoroughly (steamed, baked, or pan-seared without added salt), then finely flake or shred them into very small pieces. Mix into purees or serve as tiny, soft pieces. 9-12 months: Offer thoroughly cooked scallops, cut into pea-sized pieces or shredded, as a soft finger food. Ensure they are tender and easily mashable. 12+ months: Continue serving cooked scallops cut into appropriate bite-sized pieces for self-feeding, ensuring they are always soft and fully cooked.
Nutrition
Scallops are packed with high-quality protein, essential for muscle and tissue development. They also provide vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function, and selenium, an important antioxidant. Furthermore, scallops offer some omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for brain development.
A note from the editors
Lightly pan-sear scallops in a tiny amount of unsalted butter or olive oil until cooked through, then shred finely for babies.
Good to know
Scallops are a shellfish and a common allergen. Introduce them in small amounts, on their own, and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction like hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Always ensure they are fully cooked to prevent foodborne illness.