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Why is Homemade Food Beneficial For Your Baby?
Homemade meals have always been a preferred choice for babies, and that’s for countless good reasons. Here are the benefits of feeding your little one homemade food.Freshness
When you prepare food at home, you know what is going into your baby’s stomach. There’s nothing hidden; it's fresh and preservative-free. While cooking, you’ll have the option to add veggies or fruits (based on the food cooked) to make your baby’s food more nutritious and balanced. Remember that freshness is key to protecting your baby from digestion-related issues.Cost-Effective
You don’t need to spend thousands of rupees to make your baby’s food nutritious and healthy. A homemade meal is relatively cost-effective compared to other ready-made options. Furthermore, it’s a double benefit; your baby will have a nutritious meal while you save money.Customisation Advantage
Every baby is different, and their taste preferences will change as they age. With homemade food, you’ll have the option to customise your little one’s meal and make it safer and better to digest. Whether you want to prepare soup for your 6-month-old baby or mashed veggies for your 10-month-old, homemade meals give you a considerable advantage in customisation.Variety in Taste
Preparing homemade food for your baby lets you experiment with a variety of flavours, helping you figure out which tastes your little one loves. It will develop your baby’s taste buds, and they will crave homemade food rather than ready-made. Always wash fruits, vegetables, or grains (if possible) to keep germs at bay.Note: If your baby has grown up enough to eat food, always consult your paediatrician to get a list of foods that you can feed and what to avoid.
Are Store-Bought Food Items Safe For Your Baby?
Yes, store-bought food items are generally safe for your baby. Busy parents prefer store-bought baby food because it’s ready to eat and saves time. Just as homemade baby food does, packaged meals also offer a few advantages.Convenience is Key
Store-bought baby food can be a lifesaver for families who travel often or have limited time. These meals are easy to feed and require minimal to no cooking time. If you’re planning a trip or an emergency shows up, packaged foods provide convenience on the go.Extended Shelf Life
Unlike homemade baby foods that need immediate consumption, you can keep store-bought baby food for 48 hours, depending on the type of food. However, always check the expiry date before feeding your baby packaged food. It saves time spent preparing meals every 3-4 hours.Complete Nutritional Information
Store-bought baby foods include complete nutritional information, including the amounts of iron, calcium, protein, and carbohydrates per serving. It simply helps you track your baby's daily intake of essential nutrients.Note: Before you feed your baby with packaged or store-bought food, always consult a certified paediatrician to check whether it’s safe or not.
Homemade vs Store-Bought Baby Food: Which One is an Ideal Option?
Though both options are safe to consume by your little one, it’s all about time and convenience. Doctors generally advise homemade baby food as it is easier for your little one to digest, and there’s no need to worry about its quality and freshness. On the other hand, store-bought food is an ideal option when you’ve a scheduled trip or have limited time to prepare a complete meal for your baby. However, always discuss it with your paediatrician to know which food option is ideal for your baby.Both homemade and store-bought baby food have their own significance. Choosing one over the other in every scenario can be a tough decision. Always prioritise homemade baby food and use packaged meals only when you’re travelling or in an emergency.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Homemade vs Store-Bought Baby Food in India: What’s safer?
- When can I start giving my baby solid food meals?
Generally, it is ideal to wait at least 6 months before introducing solid foods to your baby. - How to safely store homemade baby food?
To safely store homemade baby food, refrigerate it in a tight container. Don’t keep it for more than 24 hours. - Can I give my baby both homemade and store-bought food?
Yes, you can give both homemade and store-bought food to your little one. While at home, prefer making homemade baby food; carry store-bought food during travel.