Complementary feeding means introducing solid foods alongside breast milk or formula. The World Health Organization recommends starting at around 6 months, when breast milk alone no longer meets all of a baby's needs, especially for iron.
Key takeaways
- Signs of readiness: sitting with support, good head control and interest in food.
- Milk stays the main drink and an important food through the first year.
- Iron-rich foods should be included early.
What are good first foods?
There is no single correct first food. Many families start with soft vegetables, fruit, iron-fortified cereals, meat, eggs and pulses, moving from smooth to mashed and finger foods over the following months. Allergenic foods such as egg and peanut can be introduced as part of this.
What you can do
- Offer a variety of tastes and textures, and repeat foods your baby refuses.
- Let your baby decide how much to eat.
- Do not add salt or sugar, and avoid honey before 12 months.
- Offer water in an open or free-flow cup with meals.
When to talk to your doctor
Talk to your doctor if your baby was born early, has a medical condition or severe eczema, or is not interested in solids by about 7 months.
Frequently asked questions
Some babies show signs of readiness a little earlier; talk to your doctor before starting solids before 6 months.