For a newborn child, breast milk is the best food. However, over time, they need to grow out of their dependency on breast milk and move on to other options, including baby formula and solid food. This process can get overwhelming for parents, given how tedious the whole thing can get.
On top of that, with so many options available in the market, you must make informed choices when shopping for baby food. The nutritional needs of infants are unique, and their tiny bodies require the right balance of nutrients for healthy growth and development.
To help you navigate the baby food aisle, here are seven important things to remember when shopping for baby food:
#1 Age-Appropriate Options
Over their different development stages, babies have different nutritional requirements. When selecting baby food, check the age recommendations on the packaging. Baby food is typically categorized into stages – stage 1 for 4-6 months, stage 2 for 6-8 months, and stage 3 for 8-10 months and beyond. Choosing age-appropriate options ensures that your baby receives the appropriate textures and flavors that are suitable for their developmental stage.
#2 Simple Ingredient Lists
When it comes to baby food, less is more. Opt for products with simple ingredient lists that are easy to understand. Avoid baby foods that contain artificial additives, preservatives, or excessive sugar and salt. Look for natural ingredients that are recognizable and preferably organic. The focus should be on providing your baby with wholesome, nutrient-rich foods without unnecessary additives.
#3 Nutritional Value
Babies need a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients for their growth and development. When selecting baby food, check the nutritional information on the packaging. Look for options that provide a good mix of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Single-ingredient purees like fruits and vegetables are excellent choices as they offer essential vitamins and minerals.
However, as your baby progresses, you can introduce more complex combinations to expand their palate and nutrient intake.
#4 Allergen Awareness
When it comes to infants, you can never be too safe about food allergies as they are very common in them. Therefore, it’s vital that you pay attention to the risk of allergens when choosing baby food.
Some common allergenic foods include peanuts, dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, and fish. You can try introducing these food items into your baby’s diet one at a time and then watch for any adverse reactions. When shopping for baby food, be aware of the ingredients used and avoid foods that may trigger allergies in your child.
You also need to be aware of any brand that’s currently under investigation for poor quality or for causing health problems, as seen in the toxic baby formula NEC lawsuit. It’s been observed that such toxic baby formulas cause necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in children. NEC is a common intestinal tract disease. An infant with NEC will end up having their intestinal tissue lining inflamed, slough off, or die.
According to TorHoerman Law, popular baby formula brands, including Enfamil and Similac, have been found to cause NEC. As of May this year, the number of cases in the NEC MDL is around 166.
#5 Texture Progression
As your baby grows, their ability to chew and swallow evolves. It’s important to introduce a variety of textures to help them develop their oral motor skills. Start with smooth purees and gradually progress to mashed, lumpy, and eventually finger foods. Look for age-appropriate textures in baby food products, or consider making homemade baby food to control the consistency and texture.
#6 Packaging Safety
When it comes to baby food, safety is paramount. Ensure that the packaging is intact, without any dents, leaks, or bulges. Check for the “best before” or “use by” dates to ensure freshness. Avoid purchasing baby food in glass jars if they are chipped or cracked. Always follow storage instructions and refrigerate any opened jars promptly. It’s also a good idea to check for any product recalls or safety alerts before making a purchase.
#7 Taste Exploration
Babies are curious from birth, especially when it comes to taste. That’s why exposing them to different varieties of flavors and textures early can help shape their taste preferences. For that, you can consider experimenting with different fruits and vegetables and even grains. This will help expand their palate. If you’re feeding them solid food, you can even make your own baby food by using fresh ingredients from the market.
You must always remember that babies will likely need multiple exposures to a new taste before they can accept it. Therefore, you have to be patient when it comes to feeding baby food, especially when it’s a new variety or taste for them.
Giving your child baby food is an adventure in its own way. To make sure you can successfully navigate this adventure, have patience and keep a close eye on the tips discussed above. As long as you do these two things, this whole process will become much easier for you.