First foods at six months: where to start

Around six months most babies are ready for first tastes alongside milk. Look for steady head control, sitting with support and real interest when you eat. Milk stays the main source of nutrition at this stage; food is for learning.

Start with single vegetables such as sweet potato, carrot or pumpkin, mashed smooth, then add iron-rich cereals like fortified uji. Offer one new food every few days so you can spot any reaction.

Check every label for added sugar and salt, and skip honey until after the first birthday. Messy is normal. Let baby touch, squash and taste.