In less than 7 weeks we will be blessed with the arrival of our first grandchild! Needless to say we are all very excited!! We have been shopping for car seats, strollers and porta cribs but one of the best gifts that I plan to give my new grandson is healthy and nutritious baby food that I have prepared and frozen just for him. Although solid foods are not introduced to babies for several months I am starting to plan what I can grow and make into tasty baby food. When you make it yourself not only do you know that the food you are feeding your baby is nutritious but it also costs much less than buying jars at the grocery store, especially as the baby grows and starts eating more!
Here are some tips to remember when making your own baby food:
- Make sure everything is clean. This includes washing your hands, washing the fresh fruits or vegetables (even when you are peeling them) and using clean equipment. Babies’ immune systems are more vulnerable to bacteria so practicing safe food handling methods is especially important.
- Use fresh fruits and vegetables or frozen ones that have no added sugar, salt, flavorings or preservatives.
- Cook fruits and vegetables to soften them with a small amount of water unless they are already soft like bananas. Save the cooking water to use if foods are too thick when pureeing. Use a food processor, blender or immersion blender to get the food to the correct consistency.
- Use ice cube trays to freeze the baby food. Each cube will be approximately 1 ounce. Once frozen empty the contents of the ice cube tray into a freezer bag. Mark the outside of the bag the contents and the date when frozen. When ready to use always thaw in the refrigerator not on the counter.
- Always throw away any uneaten leftover food in the baby’s dish.
To watch a video on making baby food, use this link from Spend Smart Eat Smart. If you are wondering when to introduce food to your baby here is some great information from WIC.
Feeding your family healthy and nutritious foods is a priority for everyone. I can’t wait to spoil my grandson with my homemade baby food made with lots of love.
It’s very important with all moms,she want to make healthy foods for her baby. thank you for sharing.