How to Buy Baby Food

With so many options for baby food on the market today, it can be difficult to tell what is the best and what is just hype. Baby food comes in so many different varieties that you should think about what is best for your baby, do the research and stick to your plan. Follow your plan and don't let things like organics and high prices confuse you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Choose brands that are clearly marked for the growing stages of your baby. They should state what ages the food is appropriate for. Gerber marks their food for very specific ages and stages of development and are easy to match to your child's readiness.
2. Decide ahead of time what kinds of ingredients you will feed your baby. Look for low counts of salt and sugar in any baby food you buy. Choose whole milk products and food that is low in roughage for the first two years. Babies need calories for growth, so calorie count is not as important as a full balanced daily intake.
3. Think about organic baby foods. Organic labels simply mean that no chemicals were used in growing the food. Organics will cost more and if that's what you decide on, budget for the higher price and still read the labels.
4. Introduce one food at a time to your baby. Babies don't need a big variety of food like we do. Buy single foods one at a time rather than meals that have a combination in them.
5. Check the expiration dates all the time when buying processed baby food. This habit should be familiar from all the rest of your grocery shopping, but it is especially crucial for your baby's tender tummy.
6. Test the tops of jars to make sure that the seal has not been broken. Look over boxes to make sure they are well sealed and not tampered with.
7. Consider investing in a good blender or food processor and make your own baby food. It will save you money, make it easier to stick with organic foods and you can share it with the whole family.