Introducing complementary foods – Everything parents need to know

The beginning of a new chapter

If a baby has been fed primarily with breast milk or infant formula for the first six months, an exciting phase begins around the fifth month: the complementary feeding phase. This transition to solid food is a significant developmental step – for both the baby and the parents. In addition to introducing new tastes and textures, it's primarily about one thing: teaching the child to eat in a playful and loving way.

When is the right time?

The World Health Organization (WHO) and many professional societies recommend starting complementary foods no earlier than the fourth month, but no later than the beginning of the seventh month. However, the decisive factor is less the baby's age than the so-called maturity signs.

A baby is ready for solid food when they can hold their head securely, sit upright with light support, show interest in food, and the tongue thrust reflex—the automatic pushing out of food with the tongue—has significantly diminished. Many babies then actively reach for food and observe the eating habits of adults with curious eyes.

Why complementary foods are so important

Breast milk or formula are an excellent source of nutrients in the first few months of life. However, from around the sixth month onward, the need for certain vitamins and minerals, especially iron, increases rapidly. By introducing complementary foods, the child receives additional nutrients that are urgently needed for growth and development.

In addition, the new food supports the development of the chewing apparatus, promotes oral motor skills, and slowly prepares the baby for family meals. Learning eating habits and a variety of flavors also begins during this time.

The classic complementary feeding schedule: What comes when?

Many parents follow a tried-and-tested three-phase model when introducing a baby. This involves gradually replacing a milk feed with a puree feed, usually starting with the midday puree.

The first step is to start with a simple vegetable puree—for example, carrots, parsnips, or pumpkin. These varieties are mild, well-tolerated, and easy to digest. Once the baby accepts the taste, potatoes are added. After a few days, a small amount of meat—ideally beef or chicken—can be added. A little rapeseed oil provides healthy fatty acids, and a splash of vitamin C-rich juice promotes iron absorption.

About a month later, evening porridge follows. This is usually a cereal-milk porridge that provides the baby with energy and satiety in the evening. This can consist of whole-grain flakes such as oats or spelt, mixed with breast milk, pre-formula, or even cow's milk—the latter in small amounts starting at the 7th month.

From the seventh to eighth month, an afternoon porridge is introduced—usually in the form of a fruit and cereal porridge. It contains valuable fiber and vitamins and offers the child a new taste experience.

Homemade or jars?

The question of whether to prepare complementary foods from scratch or rely on jars is a concern for many parents. Both options are valid. Ready-made jars are convenient, usually strictly controlled, and contain all the essential nutrients. However, they often don't offer the same variety as home-cooked meals. Cooking from scratch allows you to more specifically cater to your baby's preferences and intolerances and also incorporate seasonal foods.

Many parents opt for a mix: home-cooked meals at home and jars of food on the go – this creates flexibility and makes everyday life easier.

Baby-led weaning: Eating with your hands

In addition to traditional puree feeding, so-called "baby-led weaning" (BLW for short) is enjoying increasing popularity. This method involves avoiding puree and allowing babies to handle soft foods independently—they are allowed to decide for themselves what to eat, when, and how much. The child sits at the family table and independently reaches for finger foods such as soft steamed vegetables, pasta, or pieces of bread.

This method promotes independence and motor skills. However, it is a prerequisite that the baby can sit comfortably and has no swallowing problems. It is also important to always ensure that the food is suitable and non-choking – raw carrots, nuts, or grapes are taboo. Many families combine puree and BLW – depending on the situation and the child's mood on the day.

What should be considered during the introduction?

Patience is key. Not every baby embraces new foods immediately. Often, several attempts are necessary before a new texture or unfamiliar taste is accepted. Experts say it can take up to ten attempts before a child accepts a new food.

Timing also plays a role. Ideally, feeding should begin when the child is neither too hungry nor too tired. A quiet moment, without distractions from television or hustle and bustle, creates a pleasant atmosphere.

It's recommended to introduce new foods one at a time and maintain them for a few days to identify any potential intolerances or allergies. Reactions such as rashes, diarrhea, or unusual behavior should always be discussed with a pediatrician.

Does my baby need additional fluids?

As soon as the first pureed meals are introduced, the baby should also be offered water—preferably boiled tap water or still, non-carbonated mineral water. Initially, only a little will be drunk, which is completely normal. It's important to offer water regularly so the child gets used to it.

Nutrients in focus

Iron is one of the most important nutrients during the weaning period. It is primarily supplied by meat, oatmeal, and some vegetables. To improve iron absorption, it is recommended to combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C-rich fruit or juice.

Healthy fats such as rapeseed oil or butter are also essential. They provide energy and promote the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Vegetarians should pay particular attention to a balanced and iron-rich diet – in such cases, consulting a nutritionist may be helpful.

Typical challenges – and how to overcome them

Some babies spit up the puree immediately, others only want breast milk. This is completely normal. The transition to family meals is a process and should be guided with plenty of calm and humor. If a child eats little one day, it usually balances out the next.

Phases of rejection or refusal to eat are also possible. In such moments, it helps to avoid pressure, continue to let the child actively participate in family meals, and try alternative foods. Important: no coercion—food should have positive connotations.

What's next? From porridge to family food

From around their first birthday, your child's diet should resemble the family diet. This means three main meals, two snacks, prepared in a child-friendly manner, without spicy spices or highly salted foods. It's not necessary to constantly cook special meals—many dishes can be prepared with minor adjustments to suit toddlers.

Drinking also becomes more important: Water and unsweetened tea are ideal thirst quenchers. Soda, juices, and sugary drinks should be taboo—also from a dental perspective.