Stage 1 & Stage 2 Baby Foods

Once your baby becomes comfortable with eating single-ingredient cereals, it is time to begin offering him solid foods. The World Health Organization recommends infants begin receiving complementary foods, in addition to breastmilk or formula, at six months of age. Within a few months of starting your baby on solid Stage 1 and 2 baby foods, his daily diet should include a variety of foods including vegetables, fruits and meats.

  1. Preparing for Solids

    • Before initiating Stage 1 baby foods, allow your baby time to become familiar with using a spoon. This will help to make him more comfortable with a spoon in his mouth, and help him learn to draw food in on his own. If you've fed your baby cereal with a spoon, then your baby may already be comfortable with this skill.

    Introducing Stage 1 Foods

    • Stage 1 baby foods are single ingredient purees that consist of a thick, yet smooth texture. Initially, they should be given 2-3 times a day, until your baby advances to Stage 2 foods. Most Stage 1 baby foods are fruits and vegetables, which are easier for a baby's gentle system to digest, and also help to promote good nutrition habits. In the beginning, stick to buying simple Stage 1 foods, introducing them one at a time so you can watch for sensitivities and food intolerances.

    Preparing to Transition

    • Once your baby is capable of tolerating a variety of single component fruits and vegetables, he may be ready to try Stage 2 baby foods. However, you should generally wait about 2 to 3 months before making the transition. It is also best to watch for other indicators such as improvements in the way he takes and swallows food.

    Beginning Stage 2 Foods

    • Stage 2 foods introduce your baby to a larger variety and combination of foods. As you expose your baby to more solid foods, you'll also want to begin advancing texture and consistency. For example, you may try serving your baby a mixture of bananas and strawberries, or peas and potatoes. Additionally, many Stage 2 baby foods begin to provide your baby with different meats and grains.

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