Is It A Good Idea To Save Baby Food?
Almost all parents wonder if it is a good idea to save baby food. Although it is preferable that baby food is fresh and freshly prepared, there are different ways to store it so that it does not lose its nutrients, taste and other good properties.
You can save baby food for up to three months, but you must always take the proper precautions to not risk your baby’s health.
It is important to avoid the spread of bacteria. Do not feed your child directly from the container where the food is stored. Bacteria in his saliva will remain there and can easily grow.
If you then save the food, it is possible that you feed your baby with harmful bacteria the next time you give him something to eat.
Is it a good idea to save baby food?
Saving baby food will help you save time and money. There are several safe methods you can use.
Only add as much as you can
It is important to distinguish the foods that your child will eat. With a clean spoon, you can take the necessary amount needed at the moment and save the rest in clean, tightly closed containers.
Then you avoid contaminating the food and guarantee that it is still good to eat the next time you want to serve it.
If you have chosen to put the spoon in the container and the child does not eat everything, it is best to throw away the rest. That way, you avoid spreading bacteria that can make your baby sick if you feed them the same food later.
In a hygienic place
If the jar or bag has not been opened yet, you can store it at room temperature in a hygienic place. High temperatures can promote the growth of bacteria and spoil the food.
If any of the containers have become moldy, it is best to discard them immediately as they may make the baby sick.
If you buy new products continuously, we recommend that you put them in the back of the pantry. Use the older food in the front of the pantry for earlier consumption so that it does not get too old.
Save baby food for two or three days
When a container of puree, soup or any other food is opened, you can store it in the refrigerator for two or three days, but only if the lid is tightly sealed and the food has not been contaminated.
Therefore, it is always recommended that you place the portions that the child should eat for the day in a separate container and that you save the rest.
When preparing purees, baby food or soups, do not leave them at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria grow very quickly.
If you prepare the food at home and prepare your baby food yourself, you must thoroughly clean the containers in which you will store the food with detergent and hot water. The best way to store homemade baby food is by freezing it.
Ice trays are perfect to freeze food in, it gives you small enough portions to thaw before each meal. Cover them carefully with plastic wrap for best protection. Once they have completely frozen, you can store the cubes in larger containers.
Frozen, not more than three months
Frozen foods must not be older than three months. Label the containers to remember what they contain and the freezing date.
Freshly mashed fruit should be frozen immediately, but not vegetables. With the fruit, add a few drops of lemon to preserve the vitamins and protect the fruit from turning brown. Vegetables are better to mash before freezing them for a more appealing texture.
Save baby food: How do I thaw frozen food?
To thaw the food, put it in the refrigerator for a maximum of 48 hours to avoid the growth of harmful bacteria. Another option is to immerse the container in hot water, such as a water bath.
If you use the microwave, stir the food very carefully. Be careful, as some parts can become very hot and they can cause burns to the baby’s mouth and tongue. Do not freeze a puree again after it has thawed. Keep the refrigerator clean for optimal protection and good hygiene.
