Baby food choice

Jars, Pouches, Organic, and More

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Reducing Exposure to Toxic Elements in Baby Foods

Three brands in this article — Gerber, Beech-Nut, and Happy Baby — were mentioned in a February 2021 Congressional Report for products containing significantly high levels of toxic heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury. The FDA has since launched the Closer to Zero: Action Plan for Baby Foods to address exposure to toxic elements from eating baby foods.

Best overall baby food: Beech-Nut Naturals Stage 1
Best organic baby food pouches: Plum Organics Stage 1
Best budget-friendly baby food: Gerber Organic 1st Foods
Best baby food for constipation: Gerber Natural 1st Foods (Pear)
Best organic jarred baby food: Happy Baby Organics Clearly Crafted Stage 1
Best personalized subscription service: Cerebelly
Best fresh baby food: Once Upon a Farm Cold-Pressed Organic Baby Food
Best first baby cereal: Gerber Organic 1st Foods Single Grain Cereal
Best, most interesting baby food blends: Little Spoon Complex Solids
Best all-around clean baby food: Baby Gourmet

Best overall baby food

Beech-Nut Naturals Stage 1

This affordable baby food is an all-around fan favorite. Beech-Nut baby foods come in recyclable glass jars and are available in both natural and organic varieties. Blends are available in every stage, from single-ingredient foods for brand-new eaters (like butternut squash and plum) to multi-food blends with chunkier textures for older babies.

The ingredients in Beech-Nut baby foods are simple, with no artificial additives. Plus, these little glass jars are available at most grocery stores, so they’re easy to find. However, while it’s great for recycling purposes, glass can be dangerous — always supervise your little one around glass.

Beech-Nut Naturals are free of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) but not certified organic (unless you shop their organics line). They contain no added sugar.

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Best organic baby food pouches

Plum Organics Stage 1

If sustainability, organic foods, and non-GMO ingredients are important to you, Plum Organics has a great line of baby food options to try.

Their BPA-free pouches are super convenient and available in a variety of fruits, veggies, and grains for each stage of eating. These foods have no added salts or sugars, so they’re nutritious and simple for baby’s maturing digestive system. They’re also widely available and can be purchased in bulk for greater savings.

And while feeding experts definitely discourage using pouches exclusively, there’s no denying that pouches are very convenient for occasional on-the-go feedings. To make sure your baby is still progressing in their journey through solid foods, try squeezing the pouch contents into a spoon. And be sure to watch out for the small plastic caps, as they’re a choking hazard.

Plum Organics is certified organic and non-GMO, and their baby food doesn’t contain added sugar.

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Best budget-friendly baby food

Gerber Organic 1st Foods

Gerber is the classic baby food brand, and they’ve made changes over the last few years to make their food more health-conscious (e. g., starting an organic line). Yet they have maintained their status as one of the most affordable prepared baby food brands on the market.

They offer benefits like glass jars, organic ingredients, and a wide variety of food choices at a lower cost than some other brands on our list.

Gerber Organic is USDA organic, non-GMO, and free of added sugar.

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Best baby food for constipation

Gerber Natural 1st Foods (Pear)

Sometimes babies get a little constipated when they’re beginning their solid food journey, especially if they’re eating a lot of dairy or iron-fortified cereal. In addition to continuing breast milk, some foods may help relieve your little one’s digestive discomfort, including all the “P” fruits.

So prunes, pears, plums, and peaches are some options to help keep tiny bowels on the move. You can find great fruit purees in any brand on our list, but one of the more cost-effective is the Gerber brand. The good news is that many babies love fruit, so it shouldn’t be too hard to get your little one to down some prunes or pears.

This product is made with non-GMO ingredients and pears grown with Clean Field Farming practices. It doesn’t contain added sugars.

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Best organic jarred baby food

Happy Baby Organics Clearly Crafted Stage 1

Another great organic baby food option, the Happy Baby company offers their organic baby food jars at most stores — although not quite as widely as Beech-Nut and Plum Organics.

Happy Baby jars offer a wide variety of foods, from kale and mango to spinach and peaches and chia seeds. You can start with their single-ingredient jars (this is important for ruling out allergies, as well as to help baby learn to like spinach even when it’s not disguised by pears). Then, you can move on to their fruit and veggie blends as your little one grows.

High quality ingredients, creative flavors, and no artificial ingredients all make Happy Baby a solid (no pun intended) choice.

Happy Baby is USDA organic and doesn’t contain added sugars.

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Best personalized subscription service

Cerebelly

Cerebelly allows you to personalize your subscription of baby food pouches based on your child’s age, leaning on science to determine what foods will benefit them at their stage of development.

You’ll take a quiz that asks about the current development and language cues your baby is showing (responding to their name, grasping toys, using noises to show emotion, etc.). It also asks about motor, social, and visual skills.

The results will clue you in on key nutrients that may benefit your little one and customize your baby food pouches based on this.

To boot, the brand has earned the Clean Label Project Purity Award (which evaluates products for toxins and contaminants), is certified USDA organic, and contains no added sugars.

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Best fresh baby food

Once Upon a Farm Cold-Pressed Organic Baby Food

These organic, cold-pressed baby food pouches and cups are found in the refrigerated section at your grocery store (and yes, they have to be refrigerated at home). The company also has a subscription delivery option to make baby food even more convenient for your busy schedule.

Creative names like Wild Rumpus Avocado and Magic Velvet Mango will have you smiling, and the variety of flavors will (hopefully!) appeal to your little one. Once Upon a Farm offers a variety of food stages, so you can start with their purees and move on up to their finger and toddler foods as your baby grows.

Once Upon a Farm is certified organic and non-GMO. Their products contain no added sugars and are Clean Label Project certified.

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Best first baby cereal

Gerber Organic 1st Foods Single Grain Cereal

This simple cereal is a great first food for baby. You can mix this one-ingredient whole grain cereal with breast milk, formula, or water to provide your little one with some crucial nutrients (such as iron) and experience with spoons and textures.

The AAP recommends oatmeal or multigrain cereals over rice cereals, as they have a lower risk of exposure to chemicals such as arsenic (which is sometimes a concern with rice products).

As your baby gets used to other foods, you can also mix this cereal with fruit or yogurt to provide a heartier meal.

Gerber Organic is certified USDA organic and non-GMO, but this product does contain some added sugars.

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Best, most interesting baby food blends

Little Spoon Complex Solids

Once your baby is ready for more advanced blends, Little Spoon has a unique line of complex blends that contain multiple purees as well as other seeds and grains for texture.

For example, one blend contains quinoa, butternut squash, and apple. Another contains kale, white bean, pear, basil, quinoa, and avocado oil.

Little Spoon purees use certified organic and non-GMO ingredients. They’re free of added sugar.

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Best all-around clean baby food

Baby Gourmet

Baby Gourmet is another Clean Label Project Purity Award winner, which means they go above and beyond to ensure their baby food is free of harmful toxins that naturally occur in the environment.

This Canadian company is also set to donate 1 million meals to vulnerable populations by 2025. It’s founded and run by moms, which can be reassuring.

Baby Gourmet is certified organic and non-GMO by both U.S. and Canadian standards. All packaging is BPA-free. Products contain no added sugar.

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As a general guideline, it’s a good idea to start with iron-fortified baby cereals or pureed meats if your infant is breastfed. Breastfed babies are more likely to need extra iron than formula-fed babies.

It’s also advisable to start with simple, single-ingredient purees of meat, vegetables, and fruits.

Choosing brands that are certified organic, use BPA-free materials, and are conscious of using whole food ingredients (e.g., they don’t add “extras” like salt, sugar, or corn syrup) helps ensure a healthy start for your little one.

According to the AAP, you shouldn’t give babies under age 1 cow’s milk, honey, unpasteurized dairy, or undercooked meat, as these can be an infection risk for a baby’s developing immune system.

You’ll also want to avoid foods that are hard or sharp or present a choking risk (for instance, chips, nuts, popcorn, raisins, raw apples, raw carrots, whole grapes, hot dogs). For a more comprehensive guide to which foods to give and what to avoid, check out our article on infant nutrition and starting solids.

While experts used to advise waiting to introduce highly allergenic foods (such as dairy, wheat, nuts, and eggs) until after the first year, the experts now say that delayed introduction of these foods may increase a child’s risk of food allergies. So, with the guidance of your pediatrician, go ahead and introduce those foods within the first year.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you notice swelling of the tongue and mouth, wheezing, or trouble breathing after your child eats certain foods

Some babies are raring to go when it comes to trying food, while others may take a little more convincing. Either way, definitely get your camera on video mode, as there are bound to be some hilarious faces and some impressive food spillage along the way.

Here are some pro tips to help make the process as smooth as possible:

Wait until your baby shows signs of readiness for solid food.
Keep trying. It can take 5 to 10 exposures for a baby to accept a new food.
Make it fun and silly.
Cook and eat as a family as much as possible.
Let your baby play with the spoon and even the food! While incredibly messy, this helps them get comfortable with the textures, smells, and tastes of new foods.
Talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns. They’re a great resource and want to help you grow a happy, healthy baby.

What’s the best baby food for growth and weight gain?

If your baby is under 6 months and breastfeeding, it’s recommended that you stick to that exclusively for 6 months. When you’re ready to introduce solids after 6 months, it should be in addition to breastfeeding and formula, not as a replacement.

If your baby is formula-fed, they may begin eating solids sooner than 6 months. While no one specific food is recommended, a variety of foods and colors is best, including meats, vegetables, and fruits. One of the key foods that can help with growth and weight gain is avocados (high in healthy fats and fiber but low in sugar).

Always discuss your baby’s dietary changes with your pediatrician and attend regular checkups to monitor growth.

What’s the easiest food for babies to digest?

Just like adults, babies do best with regular bowel movements. If they’re having a hard time with this, oatmeal is one food known to be easy to digest and promote regularity, as it contains higher amounts of dietary fiber.

It may also help to focus on quantity. Try feeding your baby smaller meals more often, rather than fewer larger meals. This may be easier on their system and allow them to digest foods more easily.

What’s the best baby food to start with?

Mashed banana and avocado are some of the most popular solids to start with. Soft, ground oatmeal is also great. When it comes to fruit and vegetable purees, focus on variety, but don’t overdo it with those that are naturally high in sugar (such as berry purees).

Most importantly, at 6 months old, all foods should still be pureed and cooked. Once your baby is 9 months old and older, you can start to introduce vegetables cut into pieces. The only other no-no is honey, which they shouldn’t have until they’re over a year old.

It can feel like a lot of pressure to choose the best nutrition for your child, especially when trying to capitalize on the years before they start demanding chicken nuggets and ice cream. But there are a lot of great, healthy options available in 2022.

Whether you choose to make your own baby food, buy jars or pouches, or use a baby food subscription service, there are a number of resources to help you feed your baby.

The Right Foods for Each Stage

Written by Gina Shaw

In addition to breast milk or baby formula, here are the solid foods you can introduce to your baby’s diet at each stage of development - or if your baby is ready. But remember, you can exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first 6 months.

There is no evidence that delaying the introduction of allergenic foods, including peanuts, eggs, and fish, beyond 4 to 6 months prevents atopic disease. There is now evidence that early introduction of peanuts may prevent peanut allergy.

When	What	How to Prepare
4-6 months	Single-grain cereals (Fortified cereals give your baby iron, an important nutrient they need now. A baby is born with a natural reserve of iron that begins to deplete around 6 months of age.)	Mix with baby formula or breast milk, or water on occasion.
6-8 months	Pureed or strained fruits (bananas, pears, apples, apricots, prunes) Yogurt (whole milk or soy based)	Wash all fresh fruits, then bake, boil, or steam until soft. You can puree in either a blender or a food processor, or use a small hand food mill; add a little liquid like breast milk, baby formula, or water at first. Make it watery at first, then use less liquid as your baby gets used to solid foods. Any of these foods can be mixed with rice cereal if added texture is needed
	Pureed or strained vegetables (avocados, carrots, peas, potatoes, squash) These are referred to as stage 1 or 2 foods in the baby section of the grocery store.	Wash all fresh vegetables; then bake, boil, or steam until soft. You can puree in either a blender or a food processor, or use a small hand food mill; add a little liquid like breast milk, baby formula, or water at first. You can use less water for a thicker puree as your baby gets used to the new foods.
	Protein: pea-sized pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or other meats, or boneless fish; beans such as lentils, black, red, or pinto beans. (Doctors used to recommend waiting a bit to introduce meats, but now they note these are a good source of iron, particularly for breastfed babies, who may not be getting enough.	Cut meat or fish into very small pieces; cook and mash or cut up beans.
8-10 months	Mashed fruits and vegetables Stage 3 foods in the baby section Scrambled eggs	No need to puree; just cook foods such as carrots and sweet potatoes until soft, or mash up soft foods like bananas and avocados.
	Finger foods like small o-shaped cereals, teething crackers, or small pieces of soft fruit, cooked pasta, or vegetables	Cut up to make sure the pieces are small enough for your baby to swallow without choking.
	Dairy: small amounts of cottage cheese, or any pasteurized cheese	Cut cheese into small pieces.
	Eggs (Doctors used to recommend waiting to introduce eggs and other allergens until baby reached at least 4 months, but new American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines say there is no evidence that waiting prevents food allergies.)	Scramble, or hard-boil and cut into small pieces.
10-12 months	Baby can try eating most of the foods you eat now, if they are cut up or mashed properly so that they can safely chew and swallow. Unless you have a strong family history of allergies, the American Academy of Pediatrics now says there is no need to avoid peanut products, eggs, wheat, or fish until after one year, although many pediatricians are still cautious about eggs, peanuts and shellfish due to the strong allergic reactions sometimes associated with them. Avoid whole cow’s milk and honey until at least one year. Honey can cause a dangerous illness called infant botulism.	As your baby gets more teeth and learns to chew more effectively, they will begin to be able to eat larger pieces of food. Continue to monitor their chewing carefully, and when in doubt, cut pieces smaller than you think necessary. Be especially careful with round, firm foods like grapes and hot dogs, which pose a particular choking hazard to babies. Chop these into very small pieces.

Waiting a few days after introducing a new food to your baby is a good way to monitor for allergic reactions. Emerging research has shown that introducing multiple foods together is safe, and may help the immune system have a lower risk of developing food allergies, but more studies are needed. Check with your doctor for what’s best for your baby.

rating of the top 10 Russian and foreign brands with reviews according to KP

Goods for children are always under special quality control. Including food. After all, food for a baby is not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also acquaintance with different tastes and a guarantee of healthy development (1). Today there are many different brands. Among them, we selected the best manufacturers of baby food, based on the reviews of parents and expert opinions.

Rating of the top 5 Russian baby food manufacturers according to KP

There are many popular brands among Russian manufacturers of baby food. Basically, various purees, juices, cereals and dairy products are presented on the market. There are also formulas for babies, but in smaller quantities. The popularity of food is due to high quality and rather low (in comparison with foreign analogues) price.

1. "Agusha"

"Agusha". Photo: yandex.market.ru

Agusha is one of the most popular baby food manufacturers in Russia. The trademark appeared in 1992 and has a wide range of products for children of all ages. Newborns are offered powdered milk formulas, babies from 4 months - a variety of purees, sour-milk products, water, older children - ready-made cereals (both dairy and non-dairy), juices, fruit drinks, compotes and fruit bars for a snack.

Thanks to the availability and variety of products, the manufacturer is confidently holding onto the Russian market. The safety and quality of Agushi is also confirmed by some neutral studies. For example, fruit cottage cheese, as well as kefir from this brand, received the highest rating from Roskachestvo (2, 3). nine0003

However, some parents are confused by the rather high price of certain items.

The main characteristics

Manufacturer	Pepsico Russia
Assortment	puree, Dry Milk mixes, porridge, fruit bars	, recommended ages	C Founded	1992

Pros and cons

There are mixtures in the product line; wide range of.

High price for some items.

2. FrutoNyanya

FrutoNyanya. Photo: yandex.market.ru

FrutoNyanya baby food brand products are distinguished by a wide range and wide distribution in stores. Among the products of the brand you can find: a variety of cereals (with additives in the form, for example, pieces of fruit or without them), vegetable, fruit and meat purees, water, dairy products, juices, fruit drinks and nectars, snacks. For children prone to acute reactions to certain products, a special line of hypoallergenic food is offered. nine0003

Some of the brand's products have received high ratings from Roskachestvo, for example, biocurd, buckwheat porridge (4, 5).

Nutrition from this brand is designed for both the first complementary foods and for babies after a year. The composition contains salt and sugar, which are not recommended for children under one year old.

Main characteristics

Manufacturer	Progress
Assortment	purees, drinks, soups, snacks, cereals, snacks, water
Recommended age	from 0 months
Founded	2000

Pros and cons

There are hypoallergenic products.

May contain allergenic ingredients (eg sugar).

3. "Grandmother's Lukoshko"

"Grandmother's Lukoshko". Photo: yandex.market.

The manufacturer has been present on the Russian market since 1999. The main product is a variety of purees, which are available in glass jars and soft packs. For example, apple puree from this brand received the highest rating from Roskachestvo in all analysis criteria and was awarded the Quality Mark (6). nine0003

For older children, prepared meals, meatballs, healthy snacks such as fruit lozenges and biscuits are available. Also, "Babushkino Lukoshko" produces children's herbal teas. Salt in some products is not always welcomed by parents.

The main characteristics

manufacturer	"Sivma"
Assortment	puree, finished lunch, drinks, fruit pastures
Recommended age	from 4 months
Founded	1999

Pros and cons

Relatively low price in the segment; varied products.

There may be undesirable auxiliary components in the formulation (eg salt).

4. "Subject"

"Subject". Photo: yandex.market.ru

"Theme" offers products for children from 4 months to 3 years. The assortment includes a variety of meat, fish and vegetable purees, dairy products, ready meals and juices. But fruit purees are not presented. Packaging 一 is one of the distinguishing features of the brand. Thanks to special tin cans, the products are reliably protected from sunlight, which prolongs the shelf life. Also, many products of the brand are available in non-spill packages, so it is convenient to take them with you on the road. According to the results of the research, cottage cheese and juice "Theme" received the highest rating from Roskachestvo (7, 8). nine0008 5. Diaper Diaper. Photo: market.yandex.ru

All ingredients for production are supplied from our own farm. The manufacturer claims that thanks to this, it is possible to set fairly low prices for products.

The potential buyer is offered fruit and vegetable purees (some with cottage cheese), soups, various juices and fruit drinks, as well as water. Some of the products are hypoallergenic. The composition does not contain unnecessary components: salt, sugar and preservatives. Meat and fish products are not represented in the product line. nine0003

The main characteristics

Manufacturer	"Gardens Podonya"
Assortment	puree, cream-soups, cereal
Recommended age	C 40 months of	° Cite.	2005

Pros and cons

Low price in the segment; simple and clear structure.

Lack of meat and fish products in the assortment. nine0003

Rating of the top 5 foreign manufacturers of baby food according to KP

There are many foreign companies that produce baby food on the Russian market. A century of history, many years of experience and a good reputation helps to supply the market with quality products, which are preferred by many parents.

1. Gerber

Gerber. Photo: yandex.

market.ru

The assortment of the American manufacturer includes products for children from 4 months. In supermarkets and online sites, you can find vegetable and fruit purees, cereals, healthy snacks, juices, and desserts (cottage cheese treats, smoothies, and others). Hypoallergenic food is also provided. For example, dairy-free buckwheat porridge of this brand is highly appreciated by Roskachestvo experts, who noted the safe composition of the product without dangerous and harmful substances, including no added sugars (9).

The manufacturer claims that the high prices are due to the corresponding quality, which is ensured by strict standards and adherence to technology.

The main characteristics

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Manufacturer	Nestle
Assortment	puree, porridge, snacks, desserts
Recommended age	°	from 4 months	from 4 months	from 4 months of	from 4 months of	from 4 months of	from 4 months of
Founded	1927

Pros and cons

Hypoallergenic products; natural composition; high quality.

High price in the baby food segment.

2. HiPP

HiPP. Photo: yandex.market.ru

German manufacturer's products are suitable for children from birth. Infants are offered hypoallergenic powdered milk formulas enriched with vitamins. For feeding - various purees, cream soups, cereals, and as a snack for older children - snacks and dairy desserts. nine0003

Meals are made exclusively from natural ingredients, without added sugar. The high price, according to the manufacturer, is due to the use of special technologies and high-quality products.

The main characteristics

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manufacturer	HIPP
Assortment	puree, cereals, drinks, snacks, dry dairy mixtures
Recommended age
Country of origin	Germany
Founded	1957

Pros and cons

Natural composition; There are baby formulas in the assortment.

High price of products.

3. Fleur Alpine

Fleur Alpine. Photo: yandex.market.ru

Natural baby food of premium quality. The range includes purees, cereals, cookies and juices - both regular and for children prone to allergies or intolerant to gluten. In addition to the usual products, the manufacturer offers olive oil (from 6 months) and sauces (from 3 years). nine0003

From time to time, the products of this brand come under the attention of experts from Roskachestvo and Roskontrol. For example, Three cereals porridge showed excellent results: a good composition with dietary fiber and no foreign impurities, the appropriate taste, color and smell (10), and buckwheat porridge meets the advanced standards of Roskachestvo, except for the increased protein content (11).

Not all products on the official website can be purchased in a regular store. However, they can be purchased on marketplaces. nine0003

High price; Not all brand products are easy to find on offline sites.

4. Semper

Semper. Photo: yandex.market.ru

The Swedish company offers a wide range of products for children of all ages. Dry milk formulas are suitable for newborns, and there are even specialized ones that are best used for constipation. Some of them are designed for babies older than six months. For crumbs older than 4 months, the manufacturer offers a variety of vegetable, meat, fish and fruit purees, cereals, juices and children's tea with vitamins. In addition to the usual products for children, there are wellings — oatmeal and multi-cereal porridges with natural additives, cookies, and meatballs. nine0003

Roskachestvo examined this brand's applesauce and, apart from its high carbohydrate content (higher than indicated on the packaging), found no drawbacks (12). In addition, some purees contain starch.

The main characteristics

° 0 months0025

Manufacturer	Hero Group
Assortment	Dairy mixtures, puree, cereals, drinks, cookies
Recommended age	° 0 months
Country of origin	Sweden
Founded	1963

Pros and cons

There are mixtures in the product line interesting combinations of flavors.

High price in the segment; the presence of starch in the puree; the product according to BJU may differ from that stated on the package.

5. Heinz

Heinz. Photo: yandex.market.ru

American food company presents a wide range of products at affordable prices. There are fruit, vegetable and meat purees, cereals (dairy and non-dairy), soups and drinks. As a healthy snack for babies from 5 months, special cookies are suitable, and fruit and cream puddings will be a great dessert for older children. You can also find a special vermicelli that will suit crumbs from 6 months. The manufacturer's porridges received the highest rating from Roskachestvo (13). However, some products contain sugar and starch, which many parents of babies do not approve of. nine0003

The main characteristics

C C C 9 months .

Manufacturer	Heinz
Assortment	puree, soups, vermichel, pudding, cookies, tea
Recommended age	USA
Year of Manufacture	1869

Pros and Cons

Product contains prebiotics; affordable price in the segment of baby food from foreign manufacturers. nine0003

Some products contain sugar and starch.

How to choose the right baby food

A child's menu may differ from another baby's diet, not only because of age, but also due to health conditions (for example, a tendency to constipation or a dairy allergy) and personal preferences. However, the first thing to consider is age. It’s also important to keep in mind that your baby’s diet should be free of added salt and sugar (14). Certain positions deserve some explanation. nine0003

Milk formulas

Designed for feeding babies. In fact, they are designed to become an alternative to mother's milk. For the full development of the crumbs, it is necessary that vitamins and trace elements are present in the composition.

Canned puree

Introduced from 4 months. There are fruit, vegetable, meat and fish options. Combinations are also possible. For the first feeding, it is recommended to choose one-component purees from vegetables or fruits.

Porridges

Porridges, as well as mashed potatoes, are recommended to be offered to a baby from 4 months. Thanks to the special processing of cereals, children's porridge is easily boiled, which significantly saves cooking time. nine0003

Nectars, juices

You can give your baby juice or nectar from the age of 4 months. As long as it doesn't contain sugar. If available, it is better to wait at least up to 1 year.

Reviews of doctors about manufacturers of baby food

一 Baby food is becoming an object of special attention on the part of the state and parents, 一 says pediatrician Ekaterina Mikhaltsova . - The main advantages of industrial products and dishes are ease of use, balanced composition and minimal cooking time. However, you must strictly follow the age recommendations and cooking rules indicated on the labels. nine0003

- Dairy products and baby food in particular are complex production products where quality control is essential at all stages. Therefore, it is better to trust large manufacturers, - explains sanitary doctor Nikolai Dubinin . - It is important to pay attention to the composition and, before offering the child, taste the food yourself. In general, doctors agree that commercially produced baby food is no worse than home-cooked. And some are even better, due to supplements in the form of vitamins and trace elements. nine0003

TOP-10 best baby food manufacturers

How to choose a baby food manufacturer

Quality nutrition is the key to your child's health and the formation of proper eating habits. Therefore, when choosing a manufacturer, pay attention to the following criteria:

Price category. In pursuit of quality, parents choose the most expensive products for their baby, forgetting that the demand for them will only grow every month. Therefore, it is important to choose the best price for you, which you are willing to pay daily. nine0541
Country of manufacture. The quality of the goods produced depends on the country in which the products for the preparation of baby food are grown. And also in different countries there are different quality control and acceptable standards for the content of a particular substance. Technical capabilities also play an important role in production, for example, not all domestic manufacturers are able to produce medical nutrition and formula.
Assortment. It is important that the brand's product line contains as many products as possible. Since the positive reaction of the child's body to a certain product indicates that it will be the same for all the others. And a large selection will not force you to look for another good manufacturer, because baby food is designed for children from birth to three years. nine0541
Foundation time. The duration of a company's existence on the market testifies to the quality of its products. Consumer loyalty is earned over the years. Therefore, brands with a worldwide reputation are more trusted.

In order to help you make the right choice, we have prepared for you a review of the best baby food brands, both foreign and domestic. And to make a comparison and choose the best one from them, everyone should be on their own.

Useful selections

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it obligatory to feed the child with products of the same brand?

No, not necessarily. But choosing products from the range of the same manufacturer, you reduce the risk of allergies and other side effects. If your baby has come up with the nutrition of a certain brand, then you should not experiment with others.

Why is industrial food better than homemade food?

The quality of the original products is subject to strict control in production, and you can only be sure of the quality of a homemade product if you have grown it yourself. Also, the production complies with the norms of the content of useful substances in the product. For example, pure milk is not used, it is split into components, removing excess fat and some proteins. nine0003

Another advantage of factory-made products is that regardless of the season, your child's diet will be varied. And many of the goods that the baby needs cannot be prepared at home.

What raw materials do manufacturers use?

Most brands of baby food work with suppliers of various raw materials, and do not grow themselves. Some companies claim to control the process of planting and growing fruits and vegetables at suppliers. They also request a soil sample for self-checking. nine0003

But be that as it may, the products entering the production undergo a thorough control for GMOs, antibiotics and other impurities. The quality of products is monitored not only by the company itself, but also by Rospotrebnadzor. Goods entering Russia from abroad are also controlled for compliance with the standards for the content of individual components adopted in the country.

Ask your question

Rating of baby food manufacturers

10. Kabrita

Goat milk products
Country: Holland
Rating (2021): 8

Kabrita products belong to the premium segment. It appeared on the Russian market recently, only 8 years ago, but is already among the top brands. The range of the company is small. All products are made on the basis of an adapted milk formula from goat's milk and are presented in three categories: mixtures, cereals and purees. Suitable for children from birth, as well as for newborns allergic to cow's milk protein. Buyers note a soft creamy taste that kids really like. nine0003

Advantages
- Goat milk
- Natural ingredients
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for children from birth
Flaws
- Price
- Assortment
- No fermented milk products

9. Gerber

Best snacks for kids (bars and snacks)
USA
0541

American manufacturer, on the market for almost 100 years. Deservedly has good reviews from moms around the world. The company's products are represented on the Russian market by more than 80 items. These include cereals, various purees, juices, cookies, bars and snacks. The company does not produce mixtures, which means that the products are only suitable for children who are ready for the first feeding. The main assortment of this brand is canned mashed potatoes, there are no problems with the choice, but you will have to look for other products. This is especially true for wheat-oat snacks and rice-wheat stars, which are a feature of the brand. nine0003

Advantages
- Snacks
- "clean" composition
- Vitamins and minerals in the composition
- Hypoallergenic products
Flaws
- Price
- No fermented milk products and formula
- Not always available in the store

8. Tyoma

The best baby milk food manufacturer in Russia
Country: Russia
Rating (2021): 8.5

Since 1999, the Russian manufacturer has been producing baby food for children from six months. The main specialization of the company is dairy products: cottage cheese, biolact, milk porridge, baby milk and yogurt. The range also includes juices, fruit and vegetable purees, meat and vegetable purees. The company does not use glass jars. Meat purees are packed in cans, which extends their shelf life, and the rest of the purees are sold in pouches, which are convenient to take with you. nine0003

Advantages
- Price
- Assortment of fermented milk products
- Packaging
- Quality raw materials
Flaws
- No formula and cereals
- Small range
- Not suitable for children from birth

7. Heinz

The best assortment of cereals
Country: USA
Rating (2021): 8.5

The Heinz brand is represented on the Russian market by the following products: cereals, puree, vermicelli, biscuits, tea, puddings. Among all manufacturers, the brand has the most diverse range of cereals: dairy, whole grain, low-allergenic, dairy-free, vegetable, drinkable, multicomponent and for grown-up children. The latter are distinguished by a larger grinding that needs to be boiled, which helps the child move from baby food to the general table. The product line also includes meat and fish dishes. nine0003

Advantages
- Budget brand
- Assortment
- Ready meals
- Products for older babies
Flaws
- No mixture
- No fermented milk products
- Sugar often found in the composition

6.

Nutricia

Best baby formula manufacturer
Country: Holland
Rating (2021): 8.5

Multi-brand manufacturer includes such brands as: Nutrilon, Malyutka, Malysh and Nutricia. The company specializes in the production of milk formulas in cans, various price categories and a variety of applications. For example, hypoallergenic, sour-milk, lactose-free, anti-reflux and many others. The company also produces cereals, vegetable and fruit purees.

Advantages
- Variety
- Assortment
- Suitable for babies from birth
- Hypoallergenic
Flaws
- Small product line
- No ready meals
- No dairy products

5. Agusha

The widest range
Country: Russia
Rating (2021): 9

A Russian manufacturer that has been presenting its products on the market for almost 40 years. Under the Agusha brand, the widest range of baby food is produced, with the exception of powdered milk mixtures and ready meals. Not so long ago, mini breads and fruit bars appeared on the market, intended for a snack for children older than a year. There is also a new triangular packaging with a tube for fruit and berry purees. Among fermented milk products, fermented baked milk can be distinguished, which is not available from other manufacturers. nine0003

Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Assortment
- Baby products
- Packaging
Flaws
- No mix
- No ready meals
- Ingredients not always perfect

4. Frutonyanya

The best Russian manufacturer, price/quality ratio
Country: Russia
Rating (2021): 9

The company is the leader of the domestic baby food market. A wide range of products includes more than 250 items, with the exception of milk formula. All taste components included in the nutrition are familiar to the Russian consumer. From ready meals, the manufacturer offers soups and liquid cereals, and from fermented milk products - baby milk, biolact, cocktails, yogurt and cottage cheese. Among the line of meat products stand out meat purees "Halal" that meet the standards of Islam. There is dry food, but not much, mostly porridge. nine0003

Advantages
- Wide range
- Value for money
- Ready meals
- Dairy products available
Flaws
- No mix
- Not always perfect composition
- Not suitable for children from birth

3. Fleur Alpine

Producer of cereals based on goat and cow milk
Country: Germany
Rating (2021): 9.5

The company has been presenting its products on the market since 2008. The natural composition of products involves the preservation of the natural content of vitamins and trace elements in the product. The company's product selection, in addition to cereals and purees, includes cookies, bars, crackers, drinks, pasta and, notably, butter. I would also like to note that cereals are made on cow, goat and with no milk. Many products are suitable for children only from the age of three, for example, pomegranate juice and chocolate chip cookies. nine0003

Advantages
- Natural composition
- Assortment
- Producer of cereals based on goat and cow milk
- Baby oil
Flaws
- Price
- No dairy products
- No formulas

2. Semper

"Adult" dishes for baby food
Country: Sweden
Rating (2021): 10

The Swedish premium manufacturer Semper has been present on the Russian market for 20 years. During this time, the brand has earned loyalty and trust from customers. The company is included in the list of the most popular manufacturers of baby food in the world. Products are presented for both newborns and older children. The manufacturer does not offer the most diverse menu that is familiar to the Russian consumer.

On the other hand, the assortment contains components and even individual dishes that you will not find in other companies. For example, among the individual components - orange, strawberry, mango, and among the dishes - spaghetti bolognese, Italian pasta with trout and all kinds of stews. Also presented is an exclusively Swedish product - walling. nine0003

Advantages
- Ready Meals
- Best Ingredients
- Rare Ingredients
- All Ages
Flaws
- Price
- There are no fermented milk products in the assortment
- Not available everywhere

1. Hipp

Best foreign brand, strict quality control from soil to finished product
Country: Germany
Rating (2021): 10

The German company, founded in 1899, first introduced the concept of "organic" in relation to baby food.

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The Right Foods for Each Stage

rating of the top 10 Russian and foreign brands with reviews according to KP

Rating of the top 5 Russian baby food manufacturers according to KP

1. "Agusha"

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

2. FrutoNyanya

Main characteristics

Pros and cons

3. "Grandmother's Lukoshko"

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

4. "Subject"

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

Rating of the top 5 foreign manufacturers of baby food according to KP

1. Gerber

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

2. HiPP

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

3. Fleur Alpine

4. Semper

The main characteristics

Pros and cons

5. Heinz

The main characteristics

Pros and Cons

How to choose the right baby food

Milk formulas

Canned puree

Porridges

Nectars, juices

Reviews of doctors about manufacturers of baby food

Popular questions and answers

How to choose food for the first feeding?

Which of the Russian manufacturers should I pay attention to?

What composition should healthy baby food contain?

TOP-10 best baby food manufacturers

How to choose a baby food manufacturer

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it obligatory to feed the child with products of the same brand?

Why is industrial food better than homemade food?

What raw materials do manufacturers use?

Rating of baby food manufacturers

10. Kabrita

9. Gerber

8. Tyoma

7. Heinz

6.

5. Agusha

4. Frutonyanya

3. Fleur Alpine