From the moment you find out that you are going to have a baby, you are quickly bombarded with ads that encourage you to buy an array of expensive products. This can feel frustrating, especially for new parents on a tight budget. One thing that can and often should be made at home is baby food
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The Benefits
When it comes to homemade baby food, the parents can create any flavor that they can think of, so long as the ingredients are available. If they wish to make avocado baby food, for example, this is possible. The parents can adjust to the baby’s preference, which ensures that the baby will eat and gain the nutrients they need. Factory-made baby food does not have all of the nutrients and vitamins that the baby needs. This is because the food is stored at high temperatures to kill off bacteria and help it last longer. The nutrients, the vitamins, and the flavoring can be unintentionally removed during this process. In order for parents to make sure that their baby food tastes good and assists in the growing process, homemade is the way to go.
How to Make Baby Food
Wash hands and any equipment thoroughly.
Scrub and peel food.
Boil water in a pan.
Add fruits, vegetables, and/or other ingredients to boiling water.
As everything is boiling, the ingredients should be poked with a fork. If the fork goes through without problems, everything can be removed from the pan. They are done.
Puree ingredients using a blender or food processor.
Serve to baby or store for later use.
How to Store Baby Food
Place pureed foods into ice cube tray
Once the food is frozen solid, remove and place inside sealed plastic bags.
Food can be reheated using the microwave, or by running the bag under hot water.
Instead of paying too much money for canned and pre-made food, parents should consider making their own baby food. It is cheaper in the long run, and it gives you more control over what goes into your child’s body. It may seem like a scary endeavor, but with some experience and practice, even somebody that is afraid of the act of cooking can put something together. As with anything you’re unsure about, speak to your pediatrician for tips.
About the author Ami Riley is a mother of two, a personal finance consultant, and a content contributor for companies offering consumers credit cards for bad credit situations they may have temporarily experienced.
