I sometimes wonder how we’ve evolved our practices throughout the ages in terms of feeding our newborns. Today, parents have become more attentive and cautious of what they give their children. They go to the extent of weighing the benefits and drawbacks of every ingredient they put on their child’s plate. From lowering sugar intake to reducing salt, parents, particularly moms, have grown acutely aware of what is best for their children. In the previous blog, I shared how, after 6 months of breastfeeding, a mother’s first concern is what solid foods to give to the baby. 

Until the middle of the 19th century, mothers used to prepare homemade food for their children. There were no packaged foods introduced then. Those dishes were initially made for convenience, but they were becoming increasingly complex and losing popularity among working mothers at the beginning of the 20th century.[1] Because of the fast-paced lifestyle, there is an increase in demand for ready-made foods. But the real challenge is how parents on the go can ensure that their children can consume ready-made or packaged food without losing nutritional value. 

We’ve come a long way from solely homemade foods to packaged foods to a combination of both to consciously selecting foods for the infant. It is also because of the increased awareness about nutrition, gut health, protein intake, and so on. In addition, the evolution has observed scientifically proven techniques to assist moms in balancing motherhood and a fast-paced lifestyle.

The Evolution of Baby Foods- The Birth of Dried Baby Foods

The shift from homemade to packaged foods raised concerns about the authenticity of them and whether the nutritional value is compromised? Is it suitable for babies?

Parents began looking for a better alternative, focusing on foods that were not only healthy but also free of sugar, salt, and preservatives due to the ever-increasing risk of numerous ailments. To name a few, consumption may increase the risk of obesity, breathing problems in children, can affect your child’s neurological development and the system that regulates hormones, also known as the endocrine system.[2]

Today, the food system has undergone significant modifications and is gradually adopting scientifically established techniques. One of the most emerging and effective techniques is the Freeze-Dried Technique.

What is Freeze-Dried Technique?

The freeze-drying technique is a process in which water is removed at low temperatures, preserving the nutritional content while not changing the size, colour, or flavour of the foods. It is a dehydration procedure that involves the sublimation of water in a product. This indicates that the product’s water content goes from solid to gaseous — or ice to vapor — without passing through the liquid state.[3]

There are 3 stages of the freeze-drying process- sublimation, primary drying, and secondary drying.[4]

According to a study report, “India Baby Food and Formula Market-Bright Prospects for Dry Baby Food” of July 2012, Baby food, which includes dried and ready-to-feed food products, grew at a CAGR of 3.88 percent between 2007 and 2011.[5]

Freeze dried baby foods are nutritious and wholesome, contain no sugar, salt, or preservatives, and have a long and stable shelf life, allowing parents to feed their children effectively without compromising quality or health.

Benefits of Freeze-Dried Foods for Children

It provides several benefits to children and can even be consumed during the weaning process. It is a convenient food option for working parents and makes an excellent companion even when traveling with your child. The technique significantly removes about 98% of the food’s water content, making it lightweight, non-perishable, and convenient for you and your child.[6]

It satisfies a child’s taste buds, fills their tummy, provides all the necessary nutrients, and supports their growth and healthy development.

Overall, as we move towards consciously choosing foods for our babies, it’s highly recommended to start using freeze-dried foods as they are emerging as smart and nutritious choices. I will be sharing exclusive insights, tips, and knowledge about freeze-dried baby foods. While you are at it, stay tuned to this page as we are soon going to do an exciting announcement. Keep watching this space and follow @sproutlinggrows on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for all the latest updates. 

As they say, all your happiness starts with good food— it applies to your baby too! I’ll see you all in the next blog.

Read Also:

• Healthy Shakes For Your Toddlers
• Nutritious Porridge Recipes For Infants
• Nourishing Makhana Recipes For Your Baby
• How to know when a baby is hungry?
• Freeze-dried baby food vs Sun Dried or dehydrated baby food
• Best Foods For Nurturing Healthy Weight Gain In Babies
• Tiny Bites for Tiny Hands: Finger Foods for Baby-Led Weaning
• Signs Your Baby Might Be Ready for Solids
• Quinoa Dal Khichdi (Baby Food) by Sproutling

References:

• [1]. https://consumeraffairs.nic.in/sites/default/files/file-uploads/consumer_information/Baby%20Food.pdf
• [2]. https://iyurved.com/blogs/health-nutrition/5-harmful-side-effects-of-food-preservatives-for-children
• [3]. https://extension.umn.edu/preserving-and-preparing/freeze-drying
• [4]. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7603155/#:~:text=During%20the%20three%20stages%20of,overall%20costs%20of%20the%20process
• [5]. https://consumeraffairs.nic.in/sites/default/files/fileuploads/consumer_information/Baby%20Food.pdf
• [6]. https://expeditionfoods.com/pages/benefits-of-freeze-dried-food?srsltid=AfmBOoqFT5tn81rpKwLhUkIVzDlMekYDFBArXtZaav2ovBUDwj6OKlFm