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Baby food refers to soft, cooked foods introduced to infants to transition them from liquids to solid foods. This typically begins between four to six months of age, after a period of consuming only breast milk or infant formula.12

Initially, single-ingredient foods like rice cereal are offered, followed by the gradual introduction of new vegetables, fruits, and meats, with a week between each new food to monitor for allergies. It is crucial to check labels carefully to understand the ingredients in baby food. Nutritional needs are highest during an infant's first year, with breast milk or formula providing essential nutrients. As solids are introduced, a balanced diet should include protein sources, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and grains.12

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