Starting Right

www.heinzbaby.com
contains:
menus
information on products related to food allergies
commonly asked questions about baby food
resources for parents

For more information, call 1 800 565 2100

or visit our website at www.heinzbaby.com/nutrition

A nutritional guide for your childs

healthy development

Feed your baby the right

foods at the right time
As a new parent you may be asking yourself "how can I be sure
I'm feeding my baby properly?"

Thats a critical question as nutrition is the cornerstone of good

health. Good early dietary habits are important for your childs
development and growth, and are also the key to a lifetime of good
eating habits and health.

Providing your baby with a balanced diet is actually not that

difficult. Its just a matter of giving your baby the right food at the
right time. Thats where this booklet can help.
"Starting Right" was first developed in consultation with the
Canadian Pediatric Society in 1996 to address the principal issues
concerning your child's diet and to give you some practical
guidance regarding what is best for your child. Since then there
have been changes to the recommendations. The current version
has been revised to reflect current recommendations. We hope you
will find the information helpful. Good nutrition is an ongoing
process - and the sooner you get your children started on the road
to proper eating, the better.
Idamarie Laquatra, Ph.D.
Director-Global Nutrition

Table of Contents
Nutrition during Pregnancy
1
Breastfeeding
4
Formula Feeding
6
Introducing Solid Foods
7
Homemade & Store Bought Baby Foods
11
Feeding the Older Infant
13
Feeding the Toddler & Preschooler
17
Infant Growth Charts
21
A Guide for your Childs Nutritional Needs
23
Nutrition & Feeding: Frequently Asked Questions
25

H.J. Heinz Company

Who to Turn to for Advice
27
Presented by the H.J. Heinz Company of Canada Ltd.
Revised 2005.

Nutrition
during
Pregnancy
Maintain a well-balanced diet
Maintaining a well-balanced diet and proper
nutrition, as recommended by Canadas Food Guide
to Healthy Eating, during your pregnancy is
important for your health and for the proper growth
and development of your baby.

You should visit your family physician regularly to

ensure that you are healthy and your pregnancy is

First trimester
The beginning is very exciting! Physical changes are not apparent but your
body is undergoing drastic hormonal changes.These changes do not affect
all women, but you may experience morning sickness as a result.
Also, you may have cravings for certain foods and beverages due to hormone
changes that affect your sense of taste and smell. As long as you meet your
nutrient needs, its okay to eat, in moderation, the foods you crave.
During the first 3 months of pregnancy, you need extra food energy, but not
too much -- an additional 100 calories/day is all. In addition, you need 5 g
more of protein every day. Eating somewhat larger servings of meat and meat
alternatives, fish, seeds, nuts and, or legumes will give you the extra protein
your body needs.

Second trimester
Your baby is growing fast and you can see changes in your body. You may
still have sudden food cravings. You may also experience heartburn, as the
growing fetus puts pressure on the stomach. To prevent heartburn, you
should eat frequent small meals and relax while eating. Eat slowly, chew
your food completely, and avoid spicy or greasy foods.

progressing well. The doctor will monitor your diet

and weight gain to ensure that youre gaining
sufficient weight to support a healthy baby.

Eating an extra serving from each of the four food groups or eating
nutrient-dense foods will provide the additional 300 calories/day that
are needed at this stage. In addition, you need 15 g more of protein.
On average, you want to gain only one pound per week during the
second trimester.

Third trimester
This stage is critical for the health of your newborn baby and its also when
you gain most of your weight.You should maintain a weight gain of one
pound per week. Doctors recommend that you continue to take an additional
300 calories/day over what you were consuming before pregnancy. It is
always wise to consult your doctor/dietitian and have them assess your diet
and nutrient intake, and to monitor your weight gain.

Vitamins and supplements during pregnancy

Some women may need vitamins and supplements to balance a
nutritious diet. Ask you doctor/dietitian to help you choose an
appropriate supplement for you nutritional needs

Calcium
An additional 500 mg/day of calcium is recommended for fetal bone
development and to maintain your bone strength. This can be easily
achieved by adding 2 cups of milk and other dairy products to your diet.
Soy milk and soy products with added calcium, canned sardines with
their soft bones, cheese, etc. are also good sources.

Breastfeeding
The most complete food
Breast milk is the most complete food you can
offer your baby. It has just the right level and
quality of nutrients that your baby needs. It is safe
and easy to digest which means fewer feeding problems
for your baby. Its also a special time for you to build a
close and comforting bond together.

A defense against infections

Iron
You need a large supply of iron to support the increased blood volume
required during pregnancy. An additional 18 mg/day is recommended
during the second and third trimester. Diet alone wont supply this so
iron supplements are recommended during this part of your pregnancy.

Folic acid
It is extremely important that you get enough folic acid before and
during pregnancy to help reduce the risk of serious brain and spinal cord
birth defects. Fruits, orange juice, green leafy vegetables, and fortified
cereals products are good sources of folic acid

Alcohol and herbal supplements

You should avoid alcohol during pregnancy as it can lead to Fetal Alcohol
Syndrome. Also you should consult your doctor about using herbal
supplements as they may cause harm to your fetus.

TIP
Keeping fit and staying active will
make you feel better throughout your
pregnancy and help you during labor
and delivery. Build up your strength
and endurance by participating in
regular low-impact activities in cool
conditions. Be sure to drink plenty of
water before and after exercise.

Another excellent reason to breastfeed is because it

provides a natural defense against infections such as respiratory,
intestinal, and ear infections. Plus it stimulates the development
of your baby's own defense system.

How to nurse successfully

Start breastfeeding as soon as possible after
giving birth.
Ask to room-in while in the hospital so you
can feed your baby on demand.
Healthy newborn babies need to feed often
as many as 10 to 12 times in a 24 hour period.
The more you feed your baby, the more your
milk supply will increase.

Your diet
Your diet affects the quality of your milk so make sure youre eating
nutritiously. Eat according to the Canadas Food Guide To Healthy Eating
and have the recommended daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin supplements for breastfed babies

Your doctor may recommend the following supplements for your baby:

Vitamin D
If you are breastfeeding your baby, a daily vitamin D supplement of
400 I.U.fg (10 g) is recommended.

Iron
Breastfed babies will need extra iron at around six months. They should
have 7 mg of iron per day, which can be obtained from iron fortified
infant cereals or an iron supplement

Vitamin B12
If you are a strict vegetarian and are breastfeeding your baby may need a
vitamin B12 supplement. Your doctor, once aware of your diet, will
recommend an appropriate supplement.

Weaning
You are going to hear a lot of different advice about when to wean your
baby. Nursing for six months or more is best for your baby and most
doctors recommend continuing longer if the baby is healthy and
growing well.

Formula Feeding
Choosing the right formula
Breastfeeding is best for your baby. But if you choose to bottle-feed your
newborn, a commercial iron-fortified infant formula is an acceptable
alternative because it provides similar amounts of energy (calories), protein,
vitamins and minerals to those normally found in breast milk.
Breast milk or formula is recommended in the first year of life.
Most infant formulas need to be mixed with water, but you can also find
formula that is ready-to-serve. Cows milk-based formulas are the most
commonly used and are best for non-breastfed babies with no family
history of allergies. Ask your doctor about which formula is best for your
baby.

Preparing formula properly

Cleanliness is one of the best defenses against possible illness so it is wise
to sterilize the feeding bottles you use for at least the first four months of
your baby's life.
Many parents find it easier to use disposable liners. Remember that the
nipples that come with these bottles are not disposable and must still be
carefully cleaned and sterilized before each use.

Simple steps to feed your baby safely:

TIP

Newborns feed as frequently as every two hours. This can be

quite tiring for you, so rest as much as you can. If you breastfeed
frequently, your breasts are less likely to become engorged.

Wash your hands.

Wash the bottles thoroughly and remove all milk residue from
the bottle and nipple with a brush.
Immerse the bottles in boiling water for five minutes to sterilize.
Allow bottles to dry before filling.
Prepare formula according to the instructions on the package,
place in clean bottles and refrigerate immediately.
Do not reuse leftover formula after a feeding

TIP
5

Use prepared formula within 24 hours or else discard.

Introducing
Foods
When to start
When your baby is around six months of age, you
can start introducing complementary foods. Your
baby will start showing interest in food or become

Do not force feed. As long as your baby is healthy and achieving normal
growth, respect your babys cues about the types and the amounts of food
he eats. If he rejects a food, try the food again a few days or a week later. If
your baby still does not want it or like it, let it be. If you force your baby to
eat, you may be setting the stage for poor eating habits and creating
negative associations with food and mealtimes.

What to start with

Introduce the right foods at the right time. The general rule is to introduce
iron-fortified infant cereals first, followed by vegetables, fruits and then
meats.

dissatisfied with only breast milk or formula.

Infant cereals

Introduce solid foods gradually, one at a time. This

Most doctors recommend beginning with a rice cereal, as it is the least

likely to cause an allergic reaction such as a rash, diarrhea, tummy ache or
frequent crying. Once this is well accepted by your baby for at least one
week, you can progress to another single grain cereal such as Barley. Do
not give your baby mixed grain cereals until you are certain your baby can
tolerate the different grains.

way your baby will learn to appreciate each new

taste and texture and you can easily identify any
food allergies. Your baby may spit the food out the
first time, so try offering it a few more times on
different days.

Infant cereals are fortified with iron. Therefore, if your baby has been taking
a standard iron supplement, it will no longer be necessary once your baby
begins eating infant cereals regularly. Iron-fortified infant cereals are
particularly good first solid foods because they are also enriched with
calcium, phosphorus and vitamins B1, B2 and niacin which your baby needs
for healthy growth and development.

TIP

Introduce cereal in this order:

Rice
More complex grains (barley, oatmeal)
Multi-grain cereals
Cereals with fruit

Preparing cereal

Sample Menu for around 6 months

Prepare infant cereal by combining the recommended amount in a bowl,

with lukewarm breast milk, formula or water. Make the consistency such
that your baby can swallow easily. The consistency of the cereal mixed with
breast milk, formula or water should be thinner when your baby is just
starting cereal.
Begin by offering a bit of breast milk or formula first to take the edge off
babys hunger. Then offer one teaspoon of cereal mixed with breast milk,
formula or water at each meal and slowly increase the amount at your
babys own pace. At first you may put cereal on your finger or just place the
spoon up to the lips, not in the mouth. Allow baby to suck on the spoon and
become familiar with the feel of the spoon until baby learns to take food
from the spoon. The texture of cereals can be thickened as your baby
develops chewing skills.

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Snacks

180 - 240 mL
Breast milk
or formula
feeding

180 - 240 mL
Breast milk
or formula
feeding

180 - 240 mL
Breast milk
or formula
feeding

180 - 240 mL
Breast milk
or formula
feeding

1 - 2 tbsp
Infant cereal

1 - 2 tbsp
Pureed single
vegetable

1 - 2 tbsp
Infant cereal
1 - 2 tbsp
Pureed single
fruit

* Around 6 months babies are usually eating 6-7 breast milk or formula feedings
of 150-180 mL each per day. Around this age you may choose to introduce small amounts
of infant cereal at breakfast and dinner; begin with 1 tsp and gradually increase amounts
to 1-2 tbsp.

Vegetables and fruits

The next thing to introduce is finely pureed or strained vegetables and
fruits, rich in vitamins A and C and other important nutrients.

Meat and other alternatives

The procedure for starting is the same as for cereals: introduce one new
food at a time, a few days apart, and keep an eye out for undesirable
reactions. Offer single foods, such as pureed peas or carrots, before
combinations.

Youre ready to move to the next stage after your baby has become used to
vegetables and fruits and is not quite so surprised when you offer new
foods. This is when you can introduce strained meat, fish and poultry or
alternatives such as dried beans, lentils, or egg yolk. These foods are rich in
protein and iron. They help meet your baby's needs for this incredibly active
growth period.

Serve vegetables first

Vegetables are typically the most difficult for infants to accept and like, so
its best to start with them first. Fruits are naturally sweeter and babies
usually prefer them. So it could be harder to get your baby to eat vegetables
if you offer fruit first. Start with one teaspoon of vegetables at a time and
gradually increase the amount. Again, babies should not be force-fed.

When baby is tolerant of a variety of foods, and you have seen no sign of
allergic reaction, mixed varieties or dinners may be served. Avoid egg white
during the first year as it may cause an allergic reaction.

If using store bought baby food, feed from a dish rather than straight from
the jar.

10

Homemade &
Store Bought
Baby Foods
Good food habits: a lifetime of good health
Helping your baby develop good food habits now will establish good
eating habits through life. How you influence your child in food choices and
physical activities can make a big difference in preventing weight related
issues and dental health problems, as well as a myriad of other health
concerns down the road. Its important to keep your own attitude to food
positive and eat healthy foods yourself.
Preparing homemade baby foods is nutritious, relatively inexpensive and
allows more variety. They must be prepared carefully. The safe preparation
of homemade baby foods takes time, knowledge, and effort. And, although
you will be tempted, do not add salt, sugar or other seasonings to your
homemade baby foods.
Here are some pointers if you choose to make your own baby food:
Wash your hands carefully before preparing foods.
All utensils and containers should be well cleaned.
Select the best produce and thoroughly clean to ensure
you remove any foreign matter
Ensure first solid foods are well blended

Store bought foods are as wholesome, nutritious, and safe as properly

prepared homemade baby foods. They are commonly referred to as strained
and junior foods. Baby food manufacturers demand that quality and safe
standards are maintained in a number of areas.
Here are things to watch for:
Ingredient purity: Ingredients do not include any salt, additives,
preservatives or modified food starch
Nutritional purity: Fruits and vegetables are pureed in the water they are
cooked in so that valuable nutrients are retained
Process purity: the best jarred baby foods are tested for quality, safety, and
nutritional content before they are vacuum-packed and safety sealed

Sample Menu Plan for 7 9 Months

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

Snacks

3-4 tbsp
Infant Cereal

3-5 tbsp
Strained meat

30-90 ml
Strained juice

4-6 tbsp
Strained
vegetable

3-5 tbsp
Strained
vegetable/
meat
combination

180-240 ml
breast milk or
formula
feeding

180-240 ml
breast milk or
formula
feeding

TIP

11

2-3 tbsp
Strained fruit

2-3 tbsp
strained fruit

3-5 tbsp
Infant cereal

180-240 ml
180-240 ml breast milk or
formula
breast milk or
feeding
formula
feeding

Egg white is highly allergenic and shouldnt be

given to babies under one year. Only offer egg
yolk to your baby before that age.

12

Feeding
the Older Infant
Move to more textured foods
As babies grow older and begin to develop teeth, they need foods with
varied textures and tastes. Chewing is an acquired skill and textured foods are
important for teething. If children dont have the opportunity to learn how to
chew, they may have trouble eating anything but pureed foods later on.
Between seven and nine months is the usual time to introduce chunkier
baby foods. Junior Foods contain pieces large enough to encourage your
baby to chew, while still being safe and digestible
Store bought Junior Foods offer a variety of tastes and textures for the
developing palette. Like strained foods, Junior Foods contain no added salt.
In addition, all infant vegetables, meats, juices and most fruits contain no
added sugar.
If you are giving your baby mashed or chopped table foods, prepare them
from the freshest ingredients, without added salt, sugar or strong spices.

Helping your baby self-feed

As babies develop a growing sense of independence, they are ready to
experiment with feeding themselves. Sometime between nine months and a
year, you can start introducing finger foods. Remember that your baby is still
an inexperienced eater and must be supervised carefully during this stage.
Babies making the transition from baby food to table food, are going to
want to learn as much as possible about the textures and tastes of the
various surprises you offer, so be patient.

Finger food guideline

Safe and healthy foods

These are the foods which are healthy and safe to offer your baby as finger
foods at this stage:
Cooked soft vegetable pieces
Pieces of banana, seeded melon and other soft, ripe fruits
Bits of cooked fruit
Small pieces of cooked meat and poultry (deboned, of course!)
Pieces of cheese
Soft crust, toast or unsalted soda crackers

Empty calorie foods

The foods below do not offer your child adequate nutrition
and may encourage some unhealthy preferences as they
contain too much added fat, sugar or salt:
Fried foods such as French fries or home fries
Iced cakes or iced cookies, sugar-coated cereal
Flavoured drinks or soft drinks
Chocolate
Potato chips and other salted snack foods
Processed meats (such as bologna, spam)

Dangerous foods
Even under your watchful eye, your baby should not be offered
any of the following foods, which can cause choking:
Raw, hard fruits and vegetables
Fruits with seeds/ pits such as cherries
Dried fruits, except raisins that are small and seedless
Hot dogs, popcorn, nuts, seeds, whole grapes, chips or small round hard
or chewy candies that can get stuck in the airway.

Certain popular foods are safe and healthy for your baby and some should
be avoided as they offer little nutritional value or could cause choking.
Heres a guideline that should help you select whats best.

13

14

Feeding your baby safely

Sample Menu Plan for 10 - 12 Months

You will want to ensure that everything you feed your baby is free of germs,
appropriate in size and texture, and nutritionally sound. Here some tips to
ensure that food is safe and sanitary:

Breakfast

Lunch

5 tbsp
Infant Cereal

4-6 tbsp
Junior meat

90 ml
Juice

6-8 tbsp
Junior
vegetable

Double check to ensure the safety seal has not been broken before
opening a fresh jar of store bought baby food.
Carefully cover and refrigerate all unused food immediately to prevent
bacteria growth.
Leftover store bought baby foods should be properly stored in the
refrigerator and used within three days (two days for meat), or
otherwise discarded.
Seal and store home prepared food properly. Containers should be
thoroughly cleaned and have tops that screw on or otherwise
fit snugly.

150 ml
formula/breast
milk

Dinner

3-4 tbsp
Junior fruit

1/2 slice
150 ml
Whole wheat formula/breast
toast
milk

Snacks

8-10 tbsp
150 ml
Junior
formula/breast
vegetable/
milk
meat
combination
3-5 tbsp
Infant cereal
1/2 slice
Whole wheat
toast
3-4 tbsp
Junior fruit
150 ml
formula/breast
milk

Do not feed straight from the jar as bacteria and saliva can
contaminate the remaining food.
Discard all unused frozen foods that have been thawed.
Throw away all unused refrigerated homemade foods after 24 hours.
When traveling long distances with your baby, vacuum packed,
store bought baby food may offer greater food safety in preventing
spoilage and bacteria growth compared to homemade foods.

TIP

To prevent choking, ensure your baby is always

seated and supervised during feeding

To prevent infant botulism, do not use honey in feeding infants less

than one year of age.
To prevent salmonella poisoning, cook all eggs and chicken well. Do
not feed your baby a raw egg and do not use products containing
raw eggs, such as a beaten egg yolk mixed with sugar, or homemade
eggnog.
If your baby is younger than 12 months, remember not to offer egg
white because of potential allergy
Do not feed your infant and toddler peanuts and peanut butter
because they can produce serious allergic reactions.
Cows Milk has been found to increase the likelihood of allergic
reactions in children. Breast milk or formula is recommended for your
babys first year of life.

15

16

Feeding the Toddler

& Preschooler
Feeding tips for your growing child

Fat isnt bad

It is wise for adults to limit their intakes of fat and cholesterol. Thats not
necessarily so for children. Fat is a concentrated source of energy and the
body's only source of essential fatty acids. Your baby has high requirements
for both of these because of rapid growth and development in the first two
years of life. About 40 to 50 per cent of the energy (calories) infants and
toddlers consume daily should come from fat.

As your infant becomes a toddler, proper feeding

is just as important. Good nutrition is essential
not only for normal physical growth but also for
learning. This is the critical time when children
develop preferences for foods and form lifelong

Fat is found in substances such as breast milk, formula, whole milk, cheese
and red meat. There is no evidence that restricting fat in a child's diet
benefits them now or later in life. If youre concerned about your childs
weight, dont reduce the portion of healthy food normally received. Instead,
limit the intake of sweets and high fat foods such as chips and fried foods.
If weight continues to be a problem, consult a doctor or nutritionist.

eating habits.
At mealtime, offer a healthy balance of food from
the basic food groups recommended in Canada's
Food Guide to Healthy Eating. Not all meals

Its smart to snack

Many infants and toddlers need to eat small amounts of food frequently
throughout the day. Snacks are important for your child to maintain all the
energy neccessary for playing and learning. However, snacks should be
small and timed so that they do not interfere with regular meals.

require foods from each group - but there should

be a balance within the day.

Healthy snacks include whole wheat crackers or whole grain cereal, cheese,
yogurt, fruits such as sliced apple, banana or pieces of seedless orange.
Vegetables such as grated raw carrots or soft pieces of cooked frozen
vegetables like peas or diced carrots are fine provided your child is old
enough to handle these foods without choking.
Your child should also receive whole milk or fruit juice - not fruit-flavoured
drinks or soft drinks.

17

18

Tips for feeding

Poor eaters

Here are some additional tips for feeding your infant and toddler:

At some point in their young lives, children are likely to assert their
independence by rejecting the food you offer. Do not take it personally.
There are some techniques for encouraging poor eaters to change their ways.

A warm familiar setting encourages your child's enjoyment of food.

Include your toddler at the table during family mealtimes. Toddlers like
the experience of being part of the family.
Avoid adding sugar or salt to foods or giving highly sweetened or salty
foods to your toddler.
Protect your child from choking on unsafe foods: if you choose to feed
your child hot dogs and grapes make sure they are cut lengthwise.
Make sure your child sits upright while eating, and not lying down,
walking, running or being distracted from the task of eating.
Avoid eating and watching T.V. at the same time.
To keep your childs iron at normal levels, doctors recommend that
you continue feeding iron fortified infant or toddler cereals up to 2
years of age.

Older infants and toddlers with small appetites often get turned off by large
amounts of food on a plate.Try giving your child just a spoonful or two at a time.
Occasionally, a poor appetite is the result of boredom. Offer your child a
wide variety of appetizing foods.
Some children show a distinct dislike for certain vegetables or other foods.
Try to find a nutritionally sound substitute that your youngster likes.
When your picky eater is old enough, you can let him/her help you select
foods at the supermarket and help prepare at home.
Do not force your child to finish a meal, but be firm about no snacks or
desserts in between meals if these interfere.

TIP

Make sure your child has a good source of iron such as

iron-fortified toddler cereals, red meats, liver, legumes
and egg yolk.

Sample Menu Plan for 12 - 24 Months

Breakfast

Lunch

1 cup iron
30 ml
fortified
Meat (Mild
Infant/Toddler cheese or egg)
Cereal mixed
1
/2 -1 slice
with whole
bread
milk
90 ml
Juice
150 ml
Whole milk
1/2 slice
Whole wheat
toast

19

/4 cup

Snacks

30 ml Meat
(Junior or
Ground)

150 mL
Whole milk
1

/4 cup

Mashed
potato, rice or
pasta

/4 cup
Soft (raw)
vegetable

Dinner

/4 cup
Soft vegetable
1

/4 cup

Fruit

Fruit

150 ml
Whole milk

150 ml
Whole milk

20

/2 slice
Whole wheat
toast

Girls Infant

Boys Infant

Growth Chart

Growth Chart
52

52

HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE

50

50

48

48

46

46

HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE

44

KG

44

42

14

42

KG

40

13

40

13

38

12

38

12

36

11

36

11

34

10

34

10

9
8

Name:

WEIGHT

CM

CM

Name:

WEIGHT

Date of Birth:

Date of Birth:

1
0

MONTHS

MONTHS

The blue areas indicate a normal rate of growth. Measure head

circumference above the eyebrows and around the back of the head,
for maximum circumference. Measure your babys weight using an
infant scale. Consult your doctor if either head circumference or
weight differs significantly from the graph.

The pink areas indicate a normal rate of growth. Measure head

circumference above the eyebrows and around the back of the head,
for maximum circumference. Measure your babys weight using an
infant scale. Consult your doctor if either head circumference or
weight differs significantly from the graph.

21

22

A Guide
for your Childs
Nutritional Needs
Introducing the right foods
at the right time
Age

From 0 - 3
months

Milk &
Milk Products

Introduce
Breast milk/
formula

Around 6
months

Around 6
months

In the beginning breast milk and formula will offer your baby all
the essential vitamins and minerals needed. As your baby
continues to grow, you will start introducing foods from the
different food groups (described by Canadas Food Guide for
Healthy Eating). As soon as your baby is eating from all four food
groups, planning nutritionally balanced meals is easy. Choose
foods from each of the food groups every day.The foods will
work together to give your child all the energy and nutrients
needed for healthy growth and development.

From 6
months

From 7 - 9
months

Introduce
Infant cereals

Breads &
Cereals

Strained vegetables,
fruits and juices

Fruits &
Vegetables
Meat, Fish,
Poultry
& Alternatives
The first months:
It all begins
with milk

Rice, or Barley,
single-grain
before mixed
varieties

Vegetables
before fruits,
one at a time

From 12 - 24
months

Introduce
Mild cheese/yogurt

Introduce
Whole milk

Introduce
Bread/Toast

Introduce
Toddler cereals

Introduce
Combination
fruits, vegetables
& juices

Introduce
Junior foods

Introduce Pieces
of soft fruits
& vegetables

Strained meats,
Meat Vegetable
Combinations

Introduce
Junior foods

Introduce
Whole egg

Avoid salt now,

prevent
problems
later

Time for
new textures
and tastes

Increase
variety

Note: The pace at which your child eats solid foods and rate of growth are unique. This chart provides a guideline
on when to introduce various foods to your childs diet. It should be used only as a guide.

23

From 10 - 12
months

24

Introduce
table foods,
no additives
please

Q&
A

Nutrition
& Feeding:

Frequently Asked Questions

Ask the Expert:
Dr. Idamarie Laquatra,
Infant Nutritionist,
H.J. Heinz Company

Q. How long is it safe to keep an opened jar of baby food in

the refrigerator?

A. Jars of fruits and vegetables, juices, desserts, and

vegetable/meat combinations that are covered and refrigerated
should be used within three days after opening. Meats and poultry
with broth have a refrigerator life of two days.

Q. Why do leftover baby foods sometimes become watery?

A. If youre feeding your baby directly from the jar, your babys saliva
will probably get transferred from the spoon to the jar. Saliva contains
an enzyme which breaks down carbohydrates in baby foods creating
a watery consistency. Use a clean spoon to remove each portion to a
bowl and feed your baby from the bowl.

Q. My Doctor tells me that I should not give my baby

Q. When should I start feeding solid food to my baby?

A. The Canadian Pediatric Society of Canada Nutrition Committee
recommends that Infants should be introduced to nutrient-rich
solid foods with particular attention to iron at six months.*

Q. What should I start with?

A. The most common first food for babies is infant cereals.
Try rice cereal first, as your baby is least likely to be allergic to it.
Infant cereals are fortified with iron which is depleted in the
body by this time.

cows milk in the first year. Why does Heinz have milk
solids in some of its baby foods?
A. The current recommendation not to give babies cows milk,
specifically focuses on milk as the major source of nourishment.
Cows milk is not as nutritious as breast milk or infant formula. It does
not contain the full complement of nutrients that the infant requires.
Furthermore it is more difficult to digest and contains elements that
may obstruct certain minerals from being properly absorbed.
However a small amount of milk solids as an ingredient is not an
issue particularly if the baby is eating a wide variety of foods.
Occasional yogurt and cheese are also suitable for infants.

* Canadian Paediatric Society, Dietitians of Canada and Health Canada. Nutrition for
Healthy Term Infants, Minister of Public Works and Government Services, Ottawa, 2005.

25

26

Who to Turn to
for Advice
Its comforting to know that there are plenty of professionals
you can turn to for advice about your baby. Heres a short list:
Doctor
Your pediatrician or family doctor is your baby's primary health
caregiver. Your doctor can answer most of your questions or will
refer you to specialists if needed.
Dietitian / Nutritionist
Your doctor may recommend that you seek the advice of a dietitian if
your infant or child has problems relating to foods or nutrition.
Public Health Nurse
In most provinces, a public health nurse will visit you shortly after the birth
of your child. They are excellent sources of information and reassurance.
Breastfeeding Experts
Lactation consultants or breastfeeding clinics in your area will be glad to
help if you have any questions, problems or concerns about breastfeeding.
Postnatal Classes
Many communities offer post-natal classes for new mothers to give them
some guidance on the care and feeding of their infants.
Other Resources
Trained staff at Heinz is available to answer your questions
about baby food and basic infant nutrition. Call 1-800-565-2100
Medical Information Telephone Lines provided by local children's
hospitals answer basic feeding questions.

27