Do a Google search for this question and one can find numerous experts and authorities claiming there’s no evidence that organic baby food is healthier. Yet every year new studies emerge showing the harmful effects pesticides have on a global level. Many studies have found that handlers of pesticides are at an increased risk of numerous health problems including asthma and cancer. However, not many studies exist on the benefits of organic baby food to the babies. When listening to experts, I always like to remind myself that just because the studies have not been done does not mean the information is irrelevant.
Numerous studies have shown that accumulation of pesticides in the body can surpass limits that are considered safe. Infants, children and especially developing fetuses are more vulnerable to pesticide accumulation because their nervous systems and brains are still developing. Additionally, baby food is often made up of condensed fruits and vegetables, so the risk of accumulation increases. In 2007 Consumer Reports analyzed the evidence and declared that organic food is safer for children.
Some studies have even shown that organic foods are nutritionally superior. A 1998 review of studies found that organic food had higher quality protein, higher levels of Vitamin C and higher mineral levels. Another study found that organic foods contain more flavonoids, which are beneficial anti-oxidant compounds.
Additionally, organic farming and food production is on the whole, better for the planet, which is better for everybody. Pesticides accumulate in the soil, in the groundwater and in animals that come into contact with them. While it impossible to completely avoid exposure to these toxic chemicals (present even in nutritionally superior breast milk) limiting exposure seems to be wise. While some parents make their own baby food, there are high quality organic baby foods available in most locations. I try to provide as much organic food as possible to my child, and sometimes it doesn’t seem like a lot, but every little bit helps.
Making your own baby food can be easily done with a few pieces of equipment. In fact many proponents of a new trend called “baby-led weaning” say you don’t even need spoons and purees, you can just give your baby soft cooked chunks and let him feed himself on his own schedule. Others choose to puree their own food, and freeze or use fresh.
I tried to do some of the baby-led hands off approach, but also did a lot of spoon feeding too. Many mothers find that even the most dexterous toddler can get frustrated coordinating food into his mouth, and yet he still wants the food! My baby didn’t really get into eating solids until around 8 months when she was more able to eat food off our plates, which I would follow up with some baby food or apple sauce. If I had it to do all over again, I would probably grind up her food a little more, because I know how important chewing is to digesting and some of the food she ate didn’t seem to be digested well. The brands I used were Gerber Organics and Earth’s Best, but there’s many new companies coming out with frozen, which is fresher than jarred food. For example HappyBaby Organic Baby Meals and Plum Organics are available at Whole Foods and other natural food stores.
Whatever method you choose, don’t obsess about every bit of food that goes into your child’s mouth that isn’t organic. Being completely toxin-free isn’t possible. So focus on doing the best you can! Happy eating!
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This powerful 250-watt mini food processor is perfect for making baby foods and will be useful for salad dressings and chopping and grinding long after your baby is chomping away on solids. |
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Make your own baby food in only 30 minutes per week with this fun and easy kit which includes a book with 40 recipes, a video, quick reference cards and freezer trays for both baby food and breast milk |
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This PVC-Free feeding set is fun and easy for baby to use and is made from recycled plastic. The chunky design prevents tip-overs. |
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