Foods to avoid in baby's first year

Starting solids is a big milestone — and while there’s so much your baby can enjoy, there are also a few foods you should hold off on during their first year to keep them safe and healthy.

Here’s a simple guide to what to avoid (and why):

❌ 1. Honey
Can contain bacteria that cause infant botulism, a rare but serious illness.

✅ Try instead: Mashed banana or cooked pear for natural sweetness.

 
❌ 2. Added Salt
Babies' kidneys can’t handle too much salt.

✅ Tip: Avoid foods with more than 120mg of sodium per 100g. Cook with herbs or spices instead.

 
❌ 3. Added Sugar
Sugar is unnecessary and can increase the risk of tooth decay. 

✅ Stick with: Naturally sweet foods like apple, mango, or sweet potato.

 
❌ 4. Cow’s Milk as a Main Drink
Low in iron and too high in protein for babies under 12 months.

✅ Use breastmilk or formula as their main drink, and cow’s milk in cooking or cereal from 6 months is fine.

 ❌ 5. Whole Nuts & Choking Hazards
Whole nuts, popcorn, raw apple, and hard carrots can be a choking hazard. 

✅ Try: Thinly spread nut butters, steamed veggie sticks, or grated apple.

 
❌ 6. Raw or Undercooked Eggs, Meat & Fish
Risk of Salmonella or other foodborne illness.

✅ Offer: Fully cooked eggs (yolk and white firm), well-cooked meats, and soft fish like salmon.

✅ A Note on Allergens
You can introduce common allergens like egg, peanut, wheat, fish and dairy after 6 months — one at a time, while watching for any reaction. This may actually reduce the risk of allergies long term!

We know starting solids can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help! Simply reply to this email to talk. Otherwise feel free to stop by and see us at our kitchen in Balcatta to have a chat.

Lauren, Kieran and the Tiny Turtle Team 🐢