Recommendations for the introduction of non-milk foods to artificially-fed children

Recommendations for the introduction of non-milk foods to artificially-fed infants are similar to those for breastfed children, in terms of food choices, meal preparation, feeding methods and respect for the child's needs. All babies older than six months need non-milk foods.

Artificially-fed children should start getting other foods a little sooner, from the 5th month of life (not before the 17th and not after the 24th week). The formula no longer fully satisfies the infant's nutritional needs and he/she begins to show interest in other foods. From the 5th month, the functions of the digestive and excretory organs are sufficiently mature, as are the motor functions that enable feeding semi-solid and solid foods to the child.

Milk

  • Infant formula remains the main food for the child throughout the first year.
  • A child who has not continued breastfeeding or has been fed formula should get two cups of milk every day during the second year.
  • Cow's milk is not recommended during the first year (the same applies to sheep's and goat's milk). It is definitely not recommended to give uncooked/unpasteurized milk to the child.
  • Dairy products (drinking yogurt, thick yogurt, young cheese) are an excellent source of protein and calcium and can be given to children aged 7-8 months and over. The storage of dairy products is an especially important consideration, because they spoil easily and usually have a short shelf life.
  • Plant-based beverages (soy, rice or almond milk) are not recommended as primary milk for infants, because they do not meet their nutritional needs.

Age 6 to 8 months

  • Non-breastfed babies need the same amount of food and snacks as those who are breastfed, plus one meal and two cups of milk each day.
  • Beyond the 6th month, give the baby 2-3 cups of water a day, especially when the weather is warm. Give the baby boiled and cooled water until he/she is one year old.

Age 9 to 11 months

Non-breastfed babies need the same amount of food and snacks as those who are breastfed, plus two meals and two cups of milk each day. Don't forget the water.

Age 12 to 23 months

  • Non-breastfed babies need the same amount of food and snacks as those who are breastfed, plus two meals and two cups of milk each day.
  • Don't forget the water! Beyond age one, you can give your child tap water.
  • The amount of food, food choices, meal preparation and feeding recommendations are the same for formula-fed infants and for breastfed children.

Responsive feeding

Observe your baby and respond to his/her signals. Wait for the child to stop eating before offering again. Stop feeding when he/she shows that he has had enough.

Never use a bottle and nipple to give the child pureed food!!! This way of feeding significantly increases the risk of excessive calorie intake and obesity, and also increases the risk of caries when the child grows teeth. Only give the child water or formula in a bottle. From the 9th to the 12th month, most children are skilled enough to self-feed and drink from a cup held with both hands. Try to stop using the bottle and nipple no later than the baby's first birthday.