Show evgenyatamanenko/iStock/Thinkstock Safety is a major concern when it comes to feeding infants and toddlers. Both food poisoning and choking can have serious consequences. Staying informed and following a few guidelines can help to make meal time safer. Foods Young Children Should AvoidInfants and young children tend to have weaker immune systems than adults, which makes food poisoning very dangerous for this age group. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report those under 5 years of age as being at high risk, with increased rates of infection and serious complications, such as kidney failure. By making use of safe food handling and preparation guidelines, you can help reduce the risk of spreading food poisoning. When feeding young children, avoid:
Avoid feeding young children straight from a container that is going to be stored again for later use such as a baby food jar. The "double dipping" from spoon-to-mouth and back to container, introduces bacteria from your child's mouth into the rest of the food. This bacteria can continue to grow in the leftovers and may cause food poisoning. A safer method is to spoon baby food from the jar into a separate dish and then feed from the new dish instead. Throw away all uneaten food from the dish. Food that has not been in contact with the child’s mouth can be stored in the refrigerator according to the guidelines below. For safe food storage, reseal the container of food that has not been used to feed the child and store it in the refrigerator (at 40°F or below).
Risks of ChokingYoung children also are at a high risk of choking. Just because they have teeth does not mean they can handle all types of foods. In order to avoid choking, don't offer these foods to children younger than four:
Practice food safety when feeding young children by following these strategies:
Freshly PickedExplore...Find Nutrition ExpertsNeed serious help making a plan? The nutrition experts in our professional membership are ready to help you create the change to improve your life. Find a Nutrition Expert When should new foods be introduced?By the time he or she is 7 or 8 months old, your child can eat a variety of foods from different food groups. These foods include infant cereals, meat or other proteins, fruits, vegetables, grains, yogurts and cheeses, and more.
What foods should be introduced first?Solid foods may be introduced in any order. However, puréed meats, poultry, beans and iron-fortified cereals are recommended as first foods, especially if your baby has been primarily breastfed, since they provide key nutrients.
Why should new foods be introduced at least four days apart?29. When the baby is ready for solid foods, new foods should be introduced at least four days apart. Why? [A bad reaction to certain foods is not unusual. By introducing new foods at least four days apart, it is easier to figure out which food is causing the reaction.]
When should finger foods be introduced?By the time they're 9 months old, most babies have developed the fine motor skills — the small, precise movements — needed to pick up small pieces of food and feed themselves. You may notice that yours can take hold of food (and other small objects) between forefinger and thumb in a pincer grasp.
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