You are likely to hear conflicting opinions on this.  The World Health Organization states that you should wait until your baby is 6 months old before starting baby food.  The American Academy of Pediatrics and most pediatricians advise introducing first foods between four to six months old, depending on your infant's readiness (source). The reason for these recommendations is that babies only need breastmilk or formula during the first 6 months of life.  Prior to four months old, their stomachs can't quite handle the food.  In addition, in order to tolerate spoon feeding, babies should have good head and upper body control.  They should also be able to maneuver the food from the tongue to the throat.  If not, choking and aspiration could occur. Also at 6 months, feel free to offer your baby a spoon to hold during mealtimes.  Although they might not fully grasp the idea of it, holding the spoon helps to practice their fine motor skills.  It also creates great messy baby photos.  Most importantly, follow your baby's cues.  You may notice them intently watching you eat, and mimic a chewing motion with their own  mouth.