They offer a range of vitamins and minerals which are required at this point in the baby's life. Some fruits and vegetables can be eaten in the raw stage. Early favorites are banana, papaya and avocado because of their mushable texture. Parents may be alarmed by the brown fibers they leave behind in the diaper so some reassurance would be helpful. The last food group to be added is the meat group.
Canned fish mashed without the bones is a good source of protein.
Other protein foods might include yogurt, cheese, peas, mashed well-cooked beans and lentils which provide protein sources similar to meat products. In the meantime, pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, breads and other starchy foods can be added to form a more complete meal. The weaning diet should continue to be based on a diet of primarily breast milk or formula with a gradual addition of foods that ultimately will be typical of the family's food. Eventually, all four food groups will provide the baby with the nutrients and energy necessary to meet the requirements for growth and development. It is convenient to use commercially prepared infant foods which are manufactured under the highest possible standards of cleanliness.