Aug 262 min read

What Foods Are Safe for Your Baby?

Updated: Oct 6

What foods are safe for your baby is a common question when introducing solid foods. This exciting milestone often comes with concerns, but to help you navigate this new stage, we’ve put together a simple guide on how to safely introduce nutritious foods into your baby’s diet.

Safety First: Foods to Avoid

When figuring out what foods are safe for your baby, safety should be your top priority. Some foods pose choking hazards, like whole nuts, raw vegetables, and large spoonfuls of nut butter, so it’s best to avoid these. Also, steer clear of raw fish, meat, eggs, and honey, as these can contain harmful bacteria.

Table with foods to avoid for babies, emphasizing safety first when introducing solids.

Safe and Nutritious Foods for Your Baby

When you're ready to start solids, here are some safe and nutritious foods to consider as you explore what foods are safe for your baby:

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great first food for your baby. Start with cooked and pureed options that are soft and easy to swallow. As your baby grows, you can introduce larger, soft pieces that are easy to chew.

Try our Apple and Date Puree Recipe for Babies (4-6 Months) for a nutritious, easy-to-make option.

Pureed vegetables, a safe and nutritious first food for babies.

Meat and Fish

Animal proteins like meat and fish are also important in your baby’s diet. Ensure they are fully cooked and cut into small, manageable pieces. You can mix them with fruits and vegetables or serve them on their own. Avoid processed meats like deli meats and bacon.

Try our Fish or Shrimp Patties for Babies (7-12 Months) and Easy Chicken Patties for Babies (7-12 Months) for nutritious, baby-friendly recipes.

Cooked chicken and vegetables, showing how to safely introduce meat to your baby.

Grains

Grains are a great source of energy and nutrients for your baby. Introduce them well-cooked to make them easy to digest. Options include oats, wheat, quinoa, and millet. When introducing rice, choose rice cereal, as it has lower levels of arsenic than regular rice.

Baby eating cooked oats in a bowl, a healthy grain option for babies starting solids.

Beans and Legumes

Beans and legumes are nutrient-rich and offer both protein and carbohydrates. Ensure they are soaked and fully cooked before serving to your baby. These foods can be mashed or pureed for easier consumption.

Try our Homemade Hummus for Babies (4-6 Months) for a simple and nutritious option.

Beans, a safe and nutritious food for babies starting solids.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds can be safely introduced when your baby starts solids, despite being potential allergens. Start with thinned-out nut butter or blend them into purees. If your baby shows no allergic reaction, you can gradually introduce a variety of nuts and seeds.

Try our Peanut Butter and Pear Applesauce (4-6 Months) or Banana and Peanut Butter Oatmeal for Babies (4-6 Months) for delicious and safe ways to introduce nuts.

Thinned-out peanut butter on a spoon, a safe way to introduce nuts to your baby.

Conclusion:

What foods are safe for your baby is key to ensuring a healthy start as they begin their journey with solid foods. By choosing the right foods and preparing them properly, you can help your baby explore new flavors and textures safely. Enjoy this exciting new phase, one meal at a time!

For baby-friendly recipes, visit our Recipes Page or book an appointment with one of our dietitians on MyorThrive.com for personalized guidance.