You'll find quite an array of baby food on the supermarket shelf — from simple veggies and fruits to fancy mixed dinners — so it's no surprise that you're wondering which to choose.
Many baby food jars are labeled according to a baby's stage of development, with stage 1 for babies who are just starting solids and stages 2 and 3 for babies and toddlers with more experience (and solids!) under their belts. If your baby's a beginner, stick with stage 1, which is pureed to a thick liquid. Stage 2 has a thicker consistency, and stage 3 has chunks in it.
Check the expiration date on the jar label and make sure the vacuum seal is intact: The center of the lid should be slightly indented. When you open the jar at mealtime, listen for the whooshing sound and watch the center of the lid pop up. (It's a good idea to wipe the cap clean before opening the jar, too.)
When it comes to ingredients, you don't have to worry much about salt because it's no longer added to most commercial baby food. But do avoid food with added sugar and modified food starch, which are just empty calories.
Buy simple, one-ingredient baby food — rather than combinations — until you know your baby can tolerate each of the components. Introduce peas before peas and potatoes, for example.
Should I buy organic baby food or use organic food when making my own baby food?
Just don't skimp on fruits and veggies in an effort to reduce your baby's exposure to pesticides. You might consider buying organic produce for the "dirty dozen" — the fruits and vegetables that typically contain the highest levels of pesticides: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, kale/collard greens, potatoes, and imported grapes.
Just don't skimp on fruits and veggies in an effort to reduce your baby's exposure to pesticides. You might consider buying organic produce for the "dirty dozen" — the fruits and vegetables that typically contain the highest levels of pesticides: celery, peaches, strawberries, apples, blueberries, nectarines, bell peppers, spinach, cherries, kale/collard greens, potatoes, and imported grapes.
Many parents prefer organic baby food, despite the higher cost, because they want to give their baby food that's free of pesticides and other chemicals. But other parents trust that commercial products meet the minimum requirements set by the Environmental Protection Agency for their baby's safety. This is an issue you'll have to decide based on your family's beliefs and budget.
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