Babies can start eating eggs around 6 months of age, which is about the same time they begin eating solid foods.
Introducing Eggs to Your Baby's Diet
The introduction of solid foods, including eggs, should start with purees and very soft foods like infant cereal. Once your baby gets used to these, you can start adding more textured foods, such as eggs, fruits, vegetables, and meats.
Key Points to Consider:
- Age: Start offering eggs after 6 months of age.
- Texture: Begin with very soft, pureed forms of egg.
- Progression: Gradually introduce more textured foods as your baby adjusts.
- Variety: Eggs can be part of a diverse diet including fruits, vegetables, and meats.
How to Prepare Eggs for Babies
When introducing eggs to babies, ensure they are thoroughly cooked to avoid any risk of foodborne illness. Here are some safe preparation methods:
- Hard-boiled: Mash hard-boiled eggs and mix with breast milk or formula for a smooth consistency.
- Scrambled: Cook scrambled eggs until they are fully set, and serve them in small, manageable pieces.
- Pureed: Eggs can be pureed on their own or mixed with other pureed vegetables or fruits.
Summary Table
| Food | Start Age | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Infant Cereal | 6 Months | Pureed, very soft |
| Eggs | 6 Months | Pureed, mashed, or small, fully cooked pieces |
| Fruits | 6+ Months | Pureed, mashed or soft pieces |
| Vegetables | 6+ Months | Pureed, mashed or soft pieces |
| Meats | 6+ Months | Pureed, finely minced, or soft pieces |
By following these guidelines, parents can safely and effectively introduce eggs into their baby's diet.
