The current recommendations on complementary feeding accentuate the
essence of integrating healthy feeding practices in both the quality and
quantity of food. This involves the proper handling and storage of foods
in addition to its nutrient adequacy.
The introduction of complementary foods should be timely, reccomendably at 6 months once exclusive breastfeeding does not fully meet the nutrient requirements of the child.
The age range for complementary feeding is between 6 – 23 months, and should be accompanied with breastfeeding. During this period, the child is developing, and therefore complementary foods should aim to achieve the evident nutritional and physiological needs of the baby. Poor feeding practices such as the lack of variety in foods, inappropriate consistency, limited nutrient adequacy, infrequent feeding, untimely introduction of complementary foods, poor hygiene and sanitation in the handling of foods and inadequate calories should be prevented to ensure the goals of appropriate complementary feeding are met.
The complementary foods are expected to have sufficient energy density to meet the needs of a developing child. Protein requirements should also be met by choosing food sources with high biological value.
From 6 months, the foods introduced should be pureed, mashed or in
semi-solid form. A variety of food sources including
cereals, fruits, vegetables, meats (from about 8 months),legumes, etc can be prepared.
As the child develops, the consistency of the food can change gradually toward
more solid form.
The foods should also be available and culturally- appropriate. Select foods that are affordable and easily accessible but ensure
that you aim for the diversity of foods.