Australian Regulators Consider Label Change for Baby Food

Babies & Toddlers Guide Stephanie Brown recently blogged about how Australian food regulators are thinking about changing the recommended age listed on baby food labels. The labels currently say that baby food is safe for babies over 4 months old. The proposed change would make the labels read that baby food is safe for babies over 6 months old. The reason for the potential change is that evidence shows that earlier introduction of solid foods can limit the amount of breastmilk the baby receives, and could potentially harm baby's kidneys. Furthermore, they want the labels to be more in line with Australia's current recommendation that breastmilk or formula is sufficient nutrition for babies under 6 months old.

Here in the U.S., most parents are told that 4-6 months is the appropriate time to introduce solid foods to baby. My daughter's pediatrician gave me that timeframe, as well. I decided to wait until 6 months to give my daughter solid foods, but my decision was based heavily on not wanting to disrupt our already precarious breastfeeding situation. The prospect of kidney damage certainly would have swayed me, though. When did you decide to start solid foods for your baby? If you're not there yet, do you have an idea when you'll break out the baby cereal and mashed carrots?

About Babies & Toddlers: Australian Regulators Considering Label Change on Baby Food