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How to Make Your Own Baby Food

by Mary Silva, M.S., R.D.
reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P.
Preparing baby food at home is an easy and inexpensive way to feed your baby. Special equipment isn't necessary--ordinary kitchen tools will do. However, it is important to spend a little extra time to make sure all utensils and surfaces are clean.

Preparation, step by step
  1. Wash your equipment and containers in hot, soapy water.

  2. Peel fruits and vegetables, and trim the fat from meats.

  3. Steam vegetables, fruits, or meats; reserve cooking water.
  4. Allow the food to cool down.

  5. Mash food with a fork, or puree in a blender or small food processor.

  6. To smooth out the mixture, add a little of the water that the food cooked in.

  7. Don't add any sweeteners or salt; your baby will enjoy the natural flavors of the food.

Storing your baby food
  • You can store the food in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

  • To store food for a longer period, fill an ice cube tray with the food, freeze it, and then put the frozen cubes in a small freezer bag. It'll keep in the freezer for up to a month.

Heating tips
  • If heating the food in a microwave: Use a low temperature setting and be sure to stir the food thoroughly to avoid having "hot spots" burn your baby's mouth.

  • If using a stove: Allow the food to defrost first, then heat in a small pan.

  • Once a food has been reheated, throw out any leftovers your baby doesn't eat, as normally existing bacteria from your baby's mouth will grow very quickly and spoil the food.

Foods to use (fresh or frozen)
The list of foods you can give your baby is a varied one, with all kinds of fruit, vegetables, and meats. Expose her to many different types, and she's sure to discover a few favorites.
  • sweet potato

  • beans

  • apples

  • carrots

  • chicken/turkey

  • pears

  • peas

  • beef

  • bananas (do not need to be cooked)

  • broccoli

  • peaches

  • green beans

  • cantaloupe

  • pumpkin/squash

  • mango

  • spinach

  • avocado

  • beets.

*Important tip: If you plan to use vegetables from your home garden, be sure to test the soil for lead first.
 RELATED INFORMATION
*  Finger Foods for Babies
*  What are Food Allergies?
*  Solid Foods


Created January 28, 2001
Reviewed September 18, 2004
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