First Food Stages

Stage 1 – Pureed First Foods
The purpose of this stage is to get the baby used to taking food from a spoon. It is really important to allow plenty of time for this stage as up until now the baby has been used to a continuous flow from a nipple or teat. Most of their nourishment will continue to be provided by breast or formula milk. 500-600mls (approx 1 pint) a day should be continued until the child is one year old. Drinks, such as water can be introduced in a cup.

Stage 2 – Mashed, Sieved or Pureed Foods
It is important to progress at the baby’s pace. The amount of food given should be gradually increased by offering two and then three small meals a day adding new tastes and textures. The consistency of the solid food should be mashed, sieved or pureed depending on the food and the child.

As solid food intake increases milk intake will gradually decrease, however breast milk or approximately 500-600mls infant formula should be given daily until one year, this milk nay be added to solid feeds if necessary.

Stage 3 – Mashed and/or Chopped Food (Finger Food)
As solid food becomes an increasing part of baby’s diet, it is important to offer a wide range of foods, presented either mashed or chopped and offered three times a day. Offer fruit and vegetables at every meal and try to provide vitamins and minerals essential for infant growth and development and reduced risk of cancer in later life.