Pork for Baby Food – Age for Introduction to Baby: 8-10 Months
Please note: Many Pediatric authorities, specifically in Canada, the EU and the U.K. recommend meat as one of baby’s first solid foods. The reason that meat is now being recommended as a first food is due to it’s heme iron.
The Goodness of Pork for Baby Food:
| VITAMINS: Vitamin A – Vitamin C – Vitamin B1 (thiamine) – Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) – Niacin – Folate – Contains some other vitamins in small amounts. |
MINERALS: Potassium – Phosphorus – Magnesium – Calcium – Sodium – Iron – Also contains small amounts of manganese, copper and zinc. |
When can I introduce Pork to my baby? 
As with other meats, pork may be introduced to babies as early as 6 months of age. Many pediatricians still recommend that meats be introduced around 8 months of age however. Please note, raw ground pork only has a refrigerator life of 1-2 days so try to not wait to prepare baby’s food.
How to select and store Pork for baby food
When you are selecting pork to make baby food, choose a center cut roast or center cut chops that are relatively fat free. Pork will freeze well and it should not be kept in the refrigerator past its recommended freeze date.
The best way to cook Pork for baby food
As with most meats, baking or roasting helps retain the most nutrients. Pork is a great choice of meat for the crockpot or slow-cooker and is also flavorful when roasted. Choosing a tenderloin is a good option for the most tender pork that is seldom dry when roasted. Roast pork in an oven between 375 and 400 degrees F for 20 minutes per pound. For crockpot or slow-cooker pork, simmering all day on low with veggies and fruits works best.
Totally Tasty Pork Baby Food Recipes:
Sweet Pork & Apple
Ingredients:
- 1 medium apple
- 1 sweet potato
- 1 center-cut pork chop
- 2 cups of water
Directions:
Step 1: Peel, core and dice the apple into small pieces
Step 2: Peel and dice the sweet potato into small pieces
Step 3: Trim off any excess fat from the pork (a little fat is fine and will help make this puree more smooth) and dice pork into small pieces.
Step 4: Combine all ingredients in a medium sized saucepan. Bring to a boil and then simmer until meat is no longer pink and sweet potato dices are soft and mushy.
Puree in a blender or food processor to a texture suitable for your baby. You may also puree and then serve this mixed with rice or noodles and even served with lentils.
Some Foods Good to Mix With Pork
- Apples
- Pears
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Green Beans
- Peas
- Sweet Potato
- White Potato
- Barley
- Lentils
- Pasta
- Rice
Remember, always consult with your pediatrician regarding introducing solid foods to your baby and specifically discuss any foods that may pose allergy risks for your baby.
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