Affordable Baby Foods

Written by Dietetics Masters student Courtney LeDuc

Food for your little one doesn’t have to be expensive! When we think of
baby foods, the first things to come to mind are most likely those little
glass or plastic jars of pureed foods in the baby aisle of the grocery
store. Store-bought baby foods may be really convenient, but they can
often be expensive! Making food for your baby at home is a great way to
save money and allows you to offer a variety of textures to your baby
which helps them to practice and learn! Variety is important, even in the
early stages of introducing food to your baby. This includes different
colors, flavors, and textures. Smooth purees are great for food group
introductions, but your little one will soon advance to lumpy and chunky
foods!

Serve the baby the same foods as the rest of the family!
Remember, “baby foods'' are just mashed up or pureed versions of the foods adults eat! Serve your baby small
portions of the meal you are already serving to yourself or the family. Puree, mash, or cut up everything into small
pieces, depending on how advanced your baby is. By this point, your pediatrician or health care provider will have
already discussed with you the steps of feeding advancement. Your baby would love to eat the same foods as the
family and picking up pieces of food from their highchair tray is great for their development and coordination, plus
helps prevent picky eating!1 Two tips: Make sure the portion you are serving your baby doesn’t have any salt on it!
And remember to avoid choking hazards: If you can smush it easily between your fingers, it’s safe to offer.

Try buying frozen produce instead

When fresh produce is not available or more expensive, using frozen fruits and vegetables are a great idea! Frozen
produce is harvested and frozen at peak freshness so when it's defrosted, its quality is high!

DIY Squeeze Pouches

For toddlers aged 1-3, snacks on the go like fruit and vegetable squeeze pouches are extremely common and
convenient, however they can be expensive. Did you know reusable squeeze pouches are available to buy online?
Blend up your own fruit and vegetable ingredients,and get creative!

Adapted from:
https://kidseatincolor.com/cheap-baby-food-ideas/

References:
1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26327222/

This material is funded by UDSA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.