Baby Food Storage Tips
Baby food Storage doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. If you are going to make your own baby food you will want a good blender and a set of small containers that can hold from 1 to 4 ounces of food at a time.
Spices are nice for adults but try not to use a large amount of seasonings or spices in your baby food. Its better to leave foods bland or natural flavored.
Make small portions. Babies usually only eat 1 or 2 ounces of food before becoming full. Older toddlers (18 months to 24 months) will sometimes eat up to 4 ounces at a time.
Use fresh ingredients and store them properly according to the food. Fresh vegetables can be kept in produce bin in the refrigerator until you use them. Meats should be frozen unless you plan to use them within 1 to 2 days.
You can also use small containers to hold snacks such as cheerios or other finger foods suitable for toddlers. A container with a good sealable lid is ideal so that it can be tossed into the diaper bag without worrying about the container popping open and spilling everything out.
Safe Baby Food Storage
You should never feed your baby directly from the original container. Instead spoon a small amount into a dish that you feed the baby from. This will prevent bacteria (from baby's mouth) from contaminating the whole container.
Store unused portions of baby food in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be sure the refrigerator temperature is at least 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.
Use leftover baby food within 1 day. Never leave baby food out for more than 1 to 2 hours.
Containers that have lids that seal firmly, lock or screw on are best to prevent accidental opening when traveling.
Foods that are discolored, smell spoiled or that have sat out for more than 2 hours should be discarded and fresh food should be prepared for the baby.
Thaw baby foods in the refrigerator or using the defrost feature on the microwave.
Don't heat baby foods in the glass jars that they come in as the jar can be hot and the food doesn't always heat evenly. The hot spots that can develop may burn your babies mouth.