Ordering our ‘A Taste Of Looe – Monthly Subscription Box’ can be a great way to try a variety of fresh seafood every month. Need to feed the kids as well? Both fish and shellfish are extremely beneficial for growing children, due to their health benefits. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of seafood. 

Why should you give your children seafood?

Children need a range of vitamins to develop properly, with less need for energy-packed foods. It’s more beneficial to fuel your kids with vitamin-packed whole foods rather than supplements. Seafood is nutrient-dense, yet relatively low-calorie, making it perfect for growing children. Here are the top five reasons to include fish in your child’s diet:

1. White fish is high in protein and low in saturated fats. Protein is essential for growing children, as it helps the body repair itself and grow new cells.

1. Oily fish contains EPA and DHC (long-chain Omega 3 acids). Both of these Omega 3 fatty acids are beneficial for brain and heart health.

2. Vitamin D is in oily fish. Vitamin D is essential for everyone, and can also be provided by sunlight. It helps the body to maintain calcium levels in our bones, muscles and teeth. When the weather isn’t as sunny in the autumn and winter months, fish can be a great alternative source of vitamin D.

3. Shellfish contains copper. You might not think copper is essential, but it is hugely important for infant growth and development. It is used in the production of white and red blood cells.

4. Seafood is low in salt. Despite living in salt water, seafood is actually very low in salt. Processed foods often have high sodium levels, which can lead to high blood pressure. You can keep your children’s salt intake at a healthy level by incorporating seafood.

The best seafood for children

Kids can be a bit fussy when it comes to trying new things, but we’ve put together our top three seafood options. Gentle encouragement goes a long way, though introducing fish at a younger age might be beneficial. 

Mackerel

Mackerel is incredibly nutritious, with a flaky texture and salty yet sweet taste (especially when it’s smoked!). They’re an excellent source of protein, vitamins B2, B3, B6, and B12, and vitamin D, as well as minerals such as copper, selenium, and iodine. You could try using this as an alternative to fattier meats. Mackerel is best enjoyed fresh, you can find freshly caught mackerel at The Cornish Fish Co. – check it out on our online shop! 

Salmon

As we mentioned before, it can be difficult to get the kids to enjoy seafood. Salmon is a great option for the picky eaters, with a light, mild flavour profile. You could flavour it with something you know your children will love, or serve it with light seasoning to introduce them to seafood gradually. Salmon is a great source of B3, B5, B6, B12, vitamin D, vitamin E, selenium and potassium. It’s widely available and easy to prepare – find it on our website.

Crab

This option might seem a bit more adventurous, but it’s something to try if the kids are willing! Crab is high in protein and packed full of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12, folate, iron, niacin, selenium and zinc. It has a soft texture, with a mild ‘fishy’ flavour. You can find dressed crab on our online shop, freshly prepared for you and your kids to enjoy.

Order our ‘A Taste Of Looe – Monthly Subscription Box’

Our ‘A Taste Of Looe – Monthly Subscription Box’ is a great way to try a variety of fresh fish for just £25 each month. Introduce the kids to new flavours, incorporating foods into their diet in a fun, healthy way. It’s a variation of our ‘Catch of The Day’ boxes, designed to give you an insight into the species available off the Cornish Coast. It includes 4 to 5 300g packs, a minimum of 8 to 10 portions. Some of the species you might find in your subscription box include:

• Plaice
• Lemon sole
• Gurnard
• Red mullet
• Hake
• Pollock
• Haddock

This is just to name a few! Check out our range of fish and shellfish boxes available on our website, or purchase our ‘A Taste Of Looe – Monthly Subscription Box’ here.