Many parents elect to make their own baby food for economic reasons. Homemade baby food is much cheaper than store-bought, particularly when it is cooked and stored in large batches. For example, a large sweet potato costs about $1 and can yield three to four servings for a baby. Four jars of commercial baby food cost approximately double that price. This cost difference adds up considerably when you calculate how much baby food will be eaten during an infant’s first year. The choice to make homemade baby food is also likely to expose a baby to a greater variety of foods, helps the child become accustomed to eating the same foods as the rest of the family. It can also save space in the refrigerator and freezer. Many parents like to create their own food combinations, rather than rely solely on the flavors sold by manufacturers.