Time For Taste Portions?

Taste portions are small samples of food, such as a tiny amount on the tip of a spoon or your clean finger, given to introduce new flavours and textures. At this stage, solid food will merely supplement your baby’s food intake. Mealtime is about creating a positive experience, without the expectation that the child will eat a full meal or feed themselves.

1. Look for signs of readiness when your baby is around six months: Your baby might watch you eat, reach for your food, or open their mouth when offered food. This means it could be time for taste portions, but the general recommendation is to wait until your baby is six months old. Remember to always check with your healthcare provider to make sure your baby is ready for solids.
   
   

2. Find a calm moment: Pick a time when your baby is alert and in a good mood, not too tired or too hungry.
   
   

3. Stick to safe choices: Start with soft, easily digested foods like mashed bananas or boiled carrots. Most find it easiest to stick to one food at a time and introduce new flavours and textures gradually.
   
   

4. Follow their lead: Don't force your baby if he/she shows disinterest or refuses to try. Try again another day. Offer taste portions regularly, but be patient if your baby takes time to warm to new foods. It might take several tries before your baby accepts a new flavour.
   
   

5. No added salt or sugar: Avoid adding salt, sugar or spices to your baby’s food. Bland is better when it comes to taste portions.