Weaning: the first tastes

Complementary feeding — commonly known as weaning — is an important milestone in your baby's development. It is not about "stopping breastfeeding," but about introducing new flavors and textures alongside breast milk or formula.

When to start?

The main international organizations (WHO, ESPGHAN) recommend starting complementary feeding around 6 months, not before 4 months and not later than 7.

Signs of readiness

Your baby is probably ready when they:

• Can sit up with minimal support
• Have lost the tongue-thrust reflex (they no longer automatically push everything out of their mouth with their tongue)
• Show interest in the food adults are eating
• Can bring objects to their mouth in a coordinated way

Which foods to introduce first?

There is no mandatory order. Tradition has long favored vegetable broth and cereals, but we now know you can start with:

• Vegetables (zucchini, carrot, potato, squash)
• Cereals (corn, rice, oats — as baby cereal or porridge)
• Meats (rabbit, turkey, chicken)
• Legumes (lentils, peas — pureed)
• Fruit (apple, pear, banana)

How to proceed

1. One food at a time — wait 3 to 5 days before introducing a new one so you can spot any allergies
2. Small amounts — start with 1-2 teaspoons
3. Consistent timing — pick one meal of the day (usually lunch)
4. No pressure — if they refuse, try again in a few days

Foods to avoid in the first year

• Salt and sugar — your baby's kidneys are not ready yet
• Honey — risk of infant botulism
• Cow's milk as a drink (cow's milk used in cooking is fine)
• Egg whites — before 9-12 months (confirm with your pediatrician)
• Shellfish — highly allergenic
• Small, hard foods — choking hazard

Always consult your pediatrician before starting to wean and whenever you have questions along the way.