The average cost of raising a child is $233,610 per child annually, with much of that spent on food and feeding necessities. Yet, all that money can be saved when parents make homemade baby food and discuss it with their pediatrician.
Making homemade baby food is not only cheaper for the family and baby, but it’s a healthier option for babies too.
However, storing homemade baby food can be a logistical puzzle if you haven’t thought through the details. It’s not just about sealing it in jars or zipping bags shut.
Preparation and Cleanliness of Containers
When storing these foods, the preparation and cleanliness of the containers are critical. Wash any food-contact equipment, such as cutting boards, knives, and spoons.
Avoid using steel wool and utensils with highly textured surfaces, as bacteria can linger. Plastic, glass, and ceramic containers are often preferred for storage, as these materials are non-porous, meaning bacteria will not seep in and cause food to spoil.
Ensure all containers have a sealable lid and have been washed before use. Use clean, separate utensils for measuring, stirring, and transferring food into containers.
Labeling Baby Food Containers
Labeling baby food containers are an excellent way to ensure that your homemade baby food is properly stored. If you make your baby food, label it with the name of the food and the date it was made.
Once you have labeled the food, you can use air-tight containers to store the food. Make sure to use different containers for different foods and clean them thoroughly after each use.
Finally, the labeled containers make it easy to rotate out older food. This will ensure that your baby enjoys the most recent food.
Refrigerating Homemade Baby Food
The best way to store fresh food at home is in the refrigerator for up to three days. When storing homemade baby food, you should follow proper food safety guidelines for restaurants.
Refrigerating homemade baby food should never be left at room temperature for two hours. Ensure the refrigerator stays at a temperature of five degrees Celsius or below.
It’s also critical to divide baby food into small portions. Store the food in shallow containers to keep it fresh.
Freezing and Defrosting Methods
Two primary methods to safely freeze and defrost homemade baby food involve freezing the food in cubes or freezing it in ice cube trays. To freeze baby food in cubes, spoon the pureed food into silicone molds or ice cube trays and store it in the freezer.
To defrost, remove the cubes from the tray and place them into a bowl or container to be heated in the microwave. For the ice cube trays method, spoon the pureed food into a plastic ice cube tray and freeze for several hours.
To defrost, place the trays in a bowl of lukewarm water to help the cubes thaw faster and then spoon food into a bowl or container to be heated. Regardless of the freezing method used, it is essential to store uneaten food in the refrigerator or freezer within 2 hours of serving and consume it within 48 hours of defrosting.
Tips on How To Store Homemade Baby Food
Storing baby foods is easy and economical to provide your baby with the freshest, most natural foods. Preparation and storage are essential for safety and quality.
The simple tips on how to store homemade baby food allow you to make and store your baby food confidently. Start making a healthy meal for your little one!
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