One of the most exciting things as parents is when you can start introducing solids to your baby's diet. However, you can simply choose a dish and give it to them right away since there are many things you need to consider, and you need to get the green light from their pediatrician first.
In general, babies can start having solids when they're around six months old. Because of this, you may feel a bit excited to share with them one of the best dishes in the world — crawfish.
Crawfish are little crustacean little critters found lurking in lakes, rivers, paddies, streams, and other freshwater bodies of water. Many people love crawfish because of their meaty tails and mildly sweet flavor. With that being said, is it safe for the little ones to have this delicious treat?
Before heading to a Crawfish Cafe with your baby, here's what you need to know:
Is Crawfish Good for Babies?
Crawfish contains many important nutrients that can help your baby's growth. It's packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, B-vitamins that boost brain and cellular health, vitamin E that improves their immune system, and cell protection, copper to facilitate iron absorption, and more.
However, you should take note that due to water pollution, fish and shellfish will have varying levels of mercury and toxic metal that could harm their neurological and central nervous system. With that being said, you need to ensure that you purchase fresh crawfish from the Gulf Coast of the United States, such as here in Texas.
This way, you can ensure that the crawfish you and your baby will be having is exposed to low water pollution, contaminants, and mercury.
Is Crawfish a Choking Hazard for Babies?
Generally, crawfish and shellfish are quite tough to chew for babies, increasing their risk of choking. However, if you shred and finely chop the crawfish meat and incorporate it in soft dishes such as porridge or casseroles, it should be safe. Just make sure to be around your baby during mealtime to ensure your baby gets to consume their meal safely.
Can Babies Get Allergic to Crawfish?
One of the most common food allergens is shellfish, and since crawfish falls under this category, babies can also get allergic reactions from eating crawfish.
If you have a family history of allergies, specifically with seafood, you can suspect that your baby can be allergic to shellfish, too. With that, before introducing crawfish to your baby's diet, ensure that you consult with their doctor and allergist first.
However, you'd be surprised to know that shellfish allergies commonly develop during adulthood and some that develop it in childhood will not outgrow it. So if your child has no adverse reaction during the first servings, you can gradually increase their shellfish intake in their next meals.
The Bottom Line: Should I Let My Baby Eat Crawfish?
After talking to your baby's allergist and doctor and giving you the go signal, yes, you can give them one of the best dishes in the world. Ideally, you want to introduce the freshest crawfish in Houston to your little one, and you can find them at Crawfish Cafe.
Why Should You Eat at Crawfish Cafe?
If you want to indulge in delicious seafood or if you're craving fantastic crawfish, head over to Crawfish Cafe in Houston.
At Crawfish Cafe, we serve the best Viet-cajun crawfish, littleneck clams, black mussels, and more. When you're down in the south, don't forget to drop by Crawfish Cafe and treat yourself to the best seafood in the country — book a table today!