Getting Started with Homemade Baby Food
Making your own baby food is actually quite simple. You don’t need fancy equipment, just some basic supplies. Start by choosing fresh, ripe produce like apples, pears, peaches and sweet potatoes. Wash, peel if needed, and cut into small pieces. Then steam to retain nutrients. Use a blender, food processor or even a fork to puree to desired texture. Freeze in ice cube trays for easy storage. When ready to use, reheat and serve.
Proper Portions and Storage
Start small, working in single servings. As baby tries new foods, stick to one ingredient at first to gauge reactions. Once mastered, combine ingredients for flavor and texture variety. Consult your pediatrician, especially if baby has allergies or dietary restrictions.
Following proper storage methods preserves freshness and nutritional value. Refrigerate purees for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Frozen cubes can be stored together after hardening individually first to prevent sticking. Thaw what you need overnight in the refrigerator or warm gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Convenience and Control
Making your own baby food saves money and gives you control over ingredients. The process takes a small investment of time but pays off in peace of mind knowing exactly what baby is eating.
Your baby’s primary calorie and nutritional needs should still be met by breast milk or formula, so think of baby food as a supplemental learning experience for your little one. Below are six quick ideas for a more interesting meal.
New eaters only eat about 1 to 2 tablespoons of food. As you can see, it’s not hard at all and not very time-consuming either.
When to Introduce Water
Most experts suggest that you wait until you’ve started solids, when your little one is around 6 months old.
Introducing Solids
Is your baby ready to start solids? How to introduce solids by making your own baby food.
Feeding your baby is hard enough without adding more work by making your own baby food, right? Making your own baby food can help limit your child’s exposure to heavy metals found in processed and prepackaged baby foods.
Cost Comparison
Making your own baby food saves money. You have control over ingredients. With some supplies and practice, you can make nutritious, delicious meals for your little one.
Follow proper storage methods. Refrigerate purees for three days. Freeze for three months. Thaw overnight or warm gently before serving.
When starting solids, stick to one ingredient. Once mastered, combine for variety. Consult your pediatrician about allergies or restrictions.
You’ll need basic supplies: fresh produce like fruits and vegetables. Wash, peel, cut, steam to retain nutrients. Puree to desired texture with blender, processor or even a fork.
Work in small batches to avoid waste. As baby tries foods, gauge reactions before combining.
The process takes some time but pays off. You know what baby eats. Making your own baby food saves money and gives you peace of mind.