Planning to start weaning? Here are some safe and simple ways for making home-made baby food

Since the birth of the child, the mothers conjure up forthcoming development milestones in their baby’s life. And so, weaning is an important milestone that is hard to wait for. And finally, here is the time when you introduce solid foods to your baby. This is exciting, and moving, but, at the same time, there are lots of worries, doubts and suspicions associated with weaning a baby.

Last year, melamine in formula milk had hit the headlines, breaking news and top stories. Since then, I had decided not to trust any packed food for my little one. Today, I prepared formula food for my toddler, at home. This isn't a campaign against Cerelac! Obviously, Cerelac is the top selling formula food across the globe and babies love it too. But what would be a better idea than preparing formula food at home, which you can instantly prepare? Simply, pour in hot milk, stir and it is ready to be weaved to the baby.

Making formula food at home isn’t rocket science. And, believe me; I had to consult no experts before getting started. I simply roasted easily digestible grains and cereals and grinded them into a fine powder. You can take roasted chick peas, puffed rice, oats and semolina.

Another baby food that is safe to be given to babies of 5-7 months age is- purred vegetables and fruits. I remember, last summer, I was puréeing pumpkins, zucchini and sweet potatoes. She simply loved licking it. Try mashed bananas and guavas (de-seeded) if she/he likes them.

Poached apples! Ever heard of them? Simply cook a whole apple (you can also boil it in water) for 4-5 minutes. (Although poaching otherwise is only cooking for a minute in hot water and then dipping in ice bath, but for kids, I suggest you cook for some time) Now cut it into 2 halves, and give it to your baby with the help of a safe plastic spoon. Gradually, as the baby grows, you can decrease the steaming time, as your baby will be able to swallow first purees, then semi-solids and can be slowly shifted to solids.

Although homemade foods are much safer, healthier and economical, there are some foods that need to be avoided for several reasons. These are Salt, Sugar, Honey (under 12 months), Nuts (under 5 years), Soft eggs (under 12 months), raw eggs, and Soft and blue cheeses.