The Asian Age, Kolkata Aug 29, 03

Some doctors advise against packaged baby food

By Jayalakshmi Menon

Bangalore, Aug 28: Even before the fizz died down from the cola contamination controversy, parents have another "packaged" point to ponder. Parents are now being warned against "branded baby food".

Several pediatricians are advising parents to make the switch from packaged to home-cooked baby food. The fear of allergies triggered by additives present in packaged food has made parents of children above six months, switch to "homemade" or natural alternatives.

"I had started my six-month-old on tinned baby-food," says Ms Amrita Chandy, a housewife. "But he began to develop stomach ailments and it was difficult to get him to eat. That is when my pediatrician suggested I only feed my son home-cooked food (like khichdi, mashed fruits and vegetables.) He's much better after the change and does not fall ill as often."

The availability of alternative natural food products helps ease the tension of worried parents. The positive attributes of home-cooked fare also helps add to its wide appeal. Pediatricians cite reasons of hygiene, cost and taste while recommending natural alternatives.

Dr. Nandini Mundkur, paediatrician and chief executive of Bangalore Children's Hospital, says, "Natural food alternatives like pulse, cereals, fruits and vegetables are easily available, cost effective and a better weaning alternative since no preservatives are used. The child gains the same amount of nutrition, as he would with packaged baby food."

Ragi sprout gruel, khichdi or mashed vegetables are preferred by families across economic sections. "Home-cooked food is better than most processed food not only because it is more nutritious. It also has certain natural 'germs' required to build the child's immune system," says Dr. Parmesh chairman of Indian Academy of Pediatricians, Environment and child Health Group.

A view supported by Swarupa, chief dietician of Manipal Hospital , who says, "tradition practices and recipes help preserve vital vitamins and minerals on the completion of the cooking process."

Specialists say home-cooked food is a better alternative because it is made to suit the baby's needs. Factors like taste and texture are also taken into consideration during the preparation. "You can change the texture of the food as the baby grows older. Most mother are aware of methods to prepare food in a hygienic manner. This takes care of the fear of contamination," believes Dr. Arvind Shenoy, consultant pediatrician in Manipal Hospital .

Another reason being cited for the growing popularity of natural food is its cost.

"A large percentage of households in India cannot afford costly packaged baby food or the required nutritional supplements. To meet the nutritional needs of the child, parents find it more cost-effective to use locally available pulses, vegetables and other food products," Swarupa adds.