Baby food is typically introduced in three stages to meet the nutritional needs of infants as they grow. It’s important to note that these stages are general guidelines, and individual babies may progress through them at different rates.

Stage 1 (around 4-6 months)

Baby food stage 1

Purees and single-ingredient foods are introduced at this stage, focusing on smooth textures.

Foods to offer during Stage 1
  1. Iron-fortified single-grain baby cereal: Such as rice cereal.
  2. Pureed fruits: Like apples, pears, or bananas.
  3. Pureed vegetables: Examples include sweet potatoes, carrots, or peas.
  4. Mashed avocado: A nutrient-rich option with healthy fats.
  5. Pureed meat: Start with iron-rich meats like chicken or turkey.
  6. Yogurt: Opt for plain, full-fat yogurt without added sugars.

Stage 2 (around 7-8 months)

Baby food stage 2

Textures become a bit chunkier, and a variety of flavours and combinations are introduced.

Foods to offer during Stage 2
  1. Iron-fortified oatmeal: A different whole-grain option.
  2. Mashed berries: Such as blueberries or strawberries.
  3. Steamed and diced vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini.
  4. Lentil puree: A good source of iron and protein.
  5. Diced tofu: Provides a vegetarian source of iron.
  6. Hard-boiled egg yolk: Ensure it’s well-cooked and finely mashed.

Stage 3 (around 9-12 months)

Baby food stage

Baby is ready for more textures and a wider variety of foods, moving closer to family meals.

Foods to offer during Stage 1
  1. Quinoa: Cooked and slightly mashed for added texture.
  2. Diced and cooked meat: Offer small, soft pieces of beef or lamb.
  3. Cottage cheese: A good source of protein and calcium.
  4. Whole grain toast strips: Easy for little hands to hold.
  5. Chopped cooked spinach: High in iron and other essential nutrients.
  6. Pasta with tomato sauce: Ensure the pasta is well-cooked and cut into small pieces.

Remember to introduce one new food at a time to monitor for allergies, and always consult with your paediatrician before introducing solid foods to your baby. Iron-rich foods are crucial for proper infant development, as iron stores from birth start to diminish around 6 months of age.

Consultation with a Paediatrician or Dietitian

We’re parents, just like you, passionate about sharing our experiences. But we also understand the importance of personalised guidance. We strongly encourage you to always consult with a paediatrician or a registered dietitian to tailor your baby’s diet to their individual needs. Here’s to merry mealtimes and nourishing our babies, one spoonful at a time!