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Clam

Category
Seafood
Recommended age
6 months
Priority allergen
Not a priority allergen
Nutrition highlights
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Clam

Overview

Clam is a typical complementary protein around 6 months when your baby shows readiness for solids. Offer well-cooked mashed clam as a single new food.

Preparation

Remove shells. Cook clams thoroughly until they are soft enough to mash easily with a fork, then mash, puree, or flake into small pieces. Never offer large firm pieces. Always supervise eating.

Three-step introduction

Step 1: First tiny taste

Offer a small taste of well-cooked mashed or finely flaked clam. Watch for concerning symptoms during and after the feed.

Step 2: Larger offer

If tolerated, offer more of the same preparation at a later feed.

Step 3: Include regularly

Serve this food regularly in age-safe textures.

FAQ

When are babies usually ready for solid foods?

Complementary foods are typically introduced around 6 months of age, when the baby shows developmental readiness (for example, sitting with support, good head control, and swallowing food rather than pushing it out). Introducing solids before 4 months is not recommended.

Do I need to introduce foods in a certain order?

For most children, there is no required order for first foods. Fruits, vegetables, meats and other proteins, and other food groups can all be part of complementary feeding around 6 months.

How should I prepare clams for a baby?

Remove shells. Cook clams thoroughly until they are soft enough to mash easily with a fork, then mash, puree, or flake into small pieces. Never offer large firm pieces. Always supervise eating.

Is clam a lower-mercury seafood?

Yes. Choose seafood lower in mercury. Clam is listed among FDA/EPA Best Choices. Avoid fish that are high in mercury, such as king mackerel, shark, swordfish, and bigeye tuna. This is educational guidance — follow your clinician’s advice if you have questions about your child’s diet.

Sources

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