Prep warning
Serve crab only thoroughly cooked, never raw. Pick out all shell and cartilage. Shellfish is a common allergen, so offer it on its own the first few times and watch for a reaction.
Choking notes
Stray shell or cartilage is the main hazard. Pick through every piece by hand before serving and keep the meat finely chopped so no firm lump remains.
How to serve by age
6-9 months
Use crab meat that has been cooked through, and pick through it carefully to remove any bits of shell or cartilage. Finely mince or mash the soft meat, or stir it into a purée. Because shellfish is a common allergen, offer it on its own at first.
Finely minced or mashed, all shell removed.
9-12 months
Offer small pieces of cooked, finely chopped crab as the pincer grasp develops. Keep checking for shell fragments and serve it fully cooked.
Small finely chopped pieces, shell removed.
12-18 months
Serve soft cooked crab as a table food in small pieces. Keep it fully cooked and free of shell, and continue offering it in small amounts.
Bite-size soft pieces, shell removed.
Key nutrients
Allergen information
Shellfish is a common allergen. Read Shellfish guidance
Common questions
When can my baby eat Crab?
Most babies can try Crab from around 6 months, once they show signs of readiness. Check the prep and cut-size notes above before you start.
Is Crab a choking hazard for babies?
Crab is considered a lower choking-risk food when served in age-appropriate sizes and textures. Follow the cut sizes above and always stay close during meals.
Is Crab a common allergen?
Crab contains Shellfish, one of the major food allergens. Offer a small amount the first few times and watch for a reaction — see the allergen notes above.
General informational content, not medical advice. Always consult your pediatrician about introducing new foods, especially if your baby has any medical conditions or family history of allergies.
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