A family’s food safety is always a top priority for parents, and never more so than when the children are babies. These are some common food safety concerns you should keep in mind when feeding an infant.

Poor water hygiene

An unsafe water source can harbour harmful bacteria or parasites, so be certain that any water you are using in food preparation is clean and safe. Boil it or use bottled water if you can’t be sure.

Incorrect storage

Storing food at the wrong temperature can also make it a breeding ground for bacteria. Always keep perishable foods like meat, dairy products, and eggs in the fridge at a temperature below 4°C. Frozen foods should be kept below -18°C. Leftovers should be stored promptly, or at least within two hours of cooking, and you should not keep them in the fridge longer than four days.

Foodborne Illness

This one sounds especially nasty: Your food can become contaminated with harmful bacteria, parasites, and even viruses. Babies with still-forming immune systems are especially vulnerable. Vomiting, diarrhoea, and fever are common symptoms. Prevention methods include proper food preparation and personal hygiene when making your baby's meals. You should also ensure food is cooked at the right temperature and stored correctly.

Choking hazards

Choking is a major concern when you’re feeding a baby, especially during complementary feeding. Babies under a year old are at a higher risk as they have had little or no exposure to solid food. Avoid anything small, round, hard, or sticky, as these can easily get stuck in your baby’s throat. Cut food into small morsels and watch over your baby as they eat.

Food allergies

These are another common concern, especially when your baby has just begun eating solid food. Potentially allergenic foods include eggs, nuts, dairy products, and fish. Be sure to introduce these slowly and in small amounts and respond to any adverse reactions without delay. Reactions could include hives, swelling, restricted breathing, or even loss of consciousness.

Cross-Contamination

Another horrible one: cross-contamination happens when bacteria are transferred from one food to another, usually through shared utensils or surfaces. This is one of the causes of foodborne illness, as we’ve mentioned. Prevent it by washing and drying everything involved in feeding your baby thoroughly, from your hands to raw food.

What are some common food safety concerns about feeding babies?

From Unii’s Baby Nutrition Journey, we share some pressing food safety concerns.