Baby Food Stages Guide: From First Bites to Toddler Meals

Baby's transition to solid foods is more than just a dietary change—it lays the foundation for lifelong eating habits. Learn about the characteristics, appropriate foods, and precautions for each stage: early, middle, late, and completion phases.

When to Start Solids

The World Health Organization(WHO) and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend starting solid foods at around 6 months of age. However, since every baby develops differently, look for these readiness signs.

Signs of Readiness

• Can hold head steady and sit with support
• Shows interest in food and reaches for it
• Tongue-thrust reflex has diminished
• Has doubled birth weight

Early Stage (6 Months)

The early stage is an adjustment period where babies get used to spoons and new flavors.

Early Stage Characteristics

• Once daily, starting with 1-2 spoonfuls
• Thin, runny consistency (10:1 water to rice ratio)
• Start with rice cereal, adding one ingredient at a time
• Wait 3-4 days between new foods to check for allergies

The goal at this stage is adaptation to new tastes and textures, not nutritional intake.

Recommended Foods

• Grains: Rice
• Vegetables: Zucchini, potato, sweet potato, broccoli
• Fruits: Apple, pear, banana

Middle Stage (7-8 Months)

During the middle stage, increase meal quantity and frequency while combining various ingredients.

Middle Stage Characteristics

• Twice daily, 50-80g per meal
• Mashed consistency (7:1 water to rice ratio)
• Full introduction of protein foods
• Can mix two or more ingredients

Recommended Foods

• Grains: Rice, oatmeal, glutinous rice
• Vegetables: Carrot, cabbage, spinach, bok choy
• Protein: Tofu, chicken breast, white fish, egg yolk
• Fruits: Strawberry, watermelon, melon

Late Stage (9-11 Months)

In the late stage, textures advance to foods that can be mashed with gums.

Late Stage Characteristics

• Three times daily, 100-120g per meal
• Finely chopped consistency (soft rice)
• Introduction of finger foods
• Experience diverse flavors and textures

Recommended Foods

• Grains: Soft rice, noodles, bread
• Vegetables: Mushrooms, bell peppers, tomatoes
• Protein: Beef, pork, salmon, whole egg
• Dairy: Plain yogurt, cheese

Completion Stage (12-15 Months)

The completion stage transitions to toddler food and establishes family mealtime habits.

Completion Stage Characteristics

• Three main meals + 1-2 snacks daily
• Regular rice texture, similar to adult dishes
• Begin practicing with utensils
• Encourage self-feeding attempts

At this stage, let your baby enjoy choosing and eating various foods independently.

Stage-by-Stage Precautions

1. Allergy Management

Start new ingredients in small amounts and observe for 3-4 days. If symptoms like hives, vomiting, or diarrhea appear, stop that ingredient and consult your pediatrician.

2. Foods to Avoid

• Before 12 months: Honey, cow's milk, whole nuts
• Before 24 months: Shellfish, raw seafood
• All ages: Foods high in added sugar/salt

3. Choking Prevention

• Always cut grapes and cherry tomatoes
• Grind nuts or use nut butters
• Always feed in an upright seated position

Manage Baby Food with BebeSnap

Track your baby food journey systematically with the BebeSnap app.

• Record ingredients tried
• AI nutrition analysis for balanced meals
• Track and monitor allergy reactions
• View alongside baby's growth curve

👉 Learn more about BebeSnap Feeding Records

References

• WHO - Complementary Feeding
• AAP HealthyChildren - Starting Solid Foods
• CDC - Infant and Toddler Nutrition