Baby Food Chart by Age

When to Start Solid Foods

Most babies are ready for solids around 6 months. Signs of readiness: can sit up with minimal support, has good head control, shows interest in food, has lost the tongue-thrust reflex (doesn't automatically push food out of mouth). Never start before 4 months.

Starting too early increases the risk of choking, digestive issues, and may interfere with breast milk or formula intake which remains the primary nutrition source in the first year.

The Indian Weaning Tradition: Annaprashana

In Indian culture, the introduction of solid foods is celebrated as "Annaprashana" (rice ceremony), traditionally done between 6–8 months. Rice-based foods like khichdi, kanji, and rice porridge are traditional first foods that are easily digestible and culturally appropriate.

These traditional first foods are backed by modern nutrition science — moong dal khichdi provides complete protein and is gentle on developing digestive systems.

Top 8 Allergens — Introduce Carefully

Milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy are the top 8 allergens. Introduce one at a time, 3–5 days apart, and watch for reactions (rash, vomiting, hives, swelling). Early introduction (before 1 year) may actually reduce allergy risk per recent research — don't delay unnecessarily.

How to Introduce New Foods

Offer one new food at a time with 3–5 days between introductions. Start with just 1–2 teaspoons and gradually increase. It can take 10–15 exposures before a baby accepts a new food — this is completely normal. Don't force-feed. Offer rejected foods again after a few days.