There are certain foods that should not be given to infants and children.
Salt: Foods high in salt and the addition of extra salt to meals should not be used when weaning. A good idea is to remove your infant’s portion of food before adding any salt, commercial sauces or gravy.
Sugar: Avoid giving your baby sugar as it encourages a sweet tooth. Instead, try sweetening cereals or desserts with mashed banana or a purée of stewed dried fruit.
Honey: Even if he has a cough, your baby shouldn't have honey until he is at least a year old. It can contain a type of bacteria which can cause serious illness called infant botulism.
Undercooked eggs: Eggs are fine for your baby provided they are cooked thoroughly. That means no soft-boiled eggs, fried eggs should have a hard yolk, and omelettes should be cooked until they start to brown. Remember, eggs are a source of salmonella, so don’t take the risk!
Whole or chopped nuts: Nuts should not be given to children under 5 years of age due to the risk of choking.
Unpasteurised cheese, e.g. brie, blue cheese: Bacteria found in these cheeses can cause serious illness in vulnerable individual, such as babies.
Certain fish: Shark, swordfish, and king mackerel all contain high levels of mercury, and should not be included in the weaning diet.
Bran: Bran is a very high source of fibre. Large amounts of fibre can reduce the absorption of important nutrients and can be difficult for your little one to manage.
Tea or coffee: Caffeinated, decaffeinated, and herbal teas should not be included as part of the weaning diet. They reduce the absorption of important nutrients.
Processed and cured meats: Meats such as ham, bacon, sausages and rashers are all very high in salt and contain additives. They are unsuitable to use when you are weaning.
