Baby Cerelac Food is widely used by infants who transition to solids from breast milk or formula. This is a meal, or a kind of food, containing all the components required in the growth of a baby. With the babies’ growth, their appetite and therefore their feeding also varies with age.
Today in this blog we will discuss baby Cerelac food, how it is good and some controversies around it.
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In this blog we will cover-
- Nutritional Needs of Infants
- Stages of cerelac
- Recommended quantity
- Controversies around cerelac
First of all let’s begin with
Nutritional Needs of Infants
Aaround the age of 6 months most babies can safely incorporate solid food into their diet alongside breast milk/formula. Solid food makes a contribution towards fulfilling the significant dietary requirements for an active infant of this age. The calorie composition of diet of infants aged 6 months to 12 months is approximately includes the following on usual basis-
- Breast milk/formula: 24-32 ounces which is about 720-950 mL.
- Solid foods: 1 -2 meals at 6 months to 3 meals around 9 months.
- Snacks: 1-2 health consumption snacks by about 9 months of age.
Key Nutrients in Cerelac
Cerelac contains a high amount of nutrients needed for the healthy physical development of infants:
- Iron: Very important in the development of the brain and reduces the risks of suffering from anaemia.
- Calcium: Contributes to the proper growth of bones.
- Vitamin C: It is important for normal immunity and also improves the uptake of iron.
- Zinc: Important in growth and also immune defence system.
- Proteins: For rebuilding body tissues and muscle development.
- Carbohydrates: Supplies energy.
Feeds of Cerelac variety are also designed not to be heavy for the stomach; hence, they can be conveniently given to infants who are just beginning to consume solid foods.
Stages of Baby Cerlac
Stage 1 – Baby Cerelac
Designed for infants aged 6-7 months, CERELAC Wheat, Rice, and Maize offer easy-to-digest cereals that are gelatin-free. You can introduce these as your baby’s first food at six months.
Stage 2 – Baby Cerelac
(7-8 months) can yet be given to babies from 7 months of age and comes in CERELAC Banana.
Stage 3 – Baby Cerelac
(8-12 months) available as CERELAC 3 Fruits is available for infants from the age of 8 months and above. This is specially for infants who are about 8 months due to the ability to chew and vary tastes this cereal incorporates real fruit pieces to different textures for the babies.
Stage 4 – Baby Cerelac
(12 months to 18 months) suits babies who are proficient in eating solids and are willing to experiment with the family’s food . Stage 4 is available in multi-grain and fruits, multi-grain and Dal Veg and other varieties. The stage products have Bifidus BL probiotic Added which supports the healthy immune system of the baby and aids in his healthy growth and development too.
Stage 5
(From 18 months to 2 years) has a mix of 5 grains and fruits combination which is produced with fruits in the texture appropriate for babies. Also added is wholegrain oats. The extra useful minerals, vitamins and fats helps the infant enough to not only gain nutrition and its taste but also gain health.
Reference- Stages
When to Begin Feeding Baby Cerelac
Cerelac foods may be introduced to most babies who are about 6 months of age and show signs of development. The particular signs of readiness involve the following-
- Ability to sit up with support
- Participating in eating activities
- Refusal of the tongue-thrust reaction (pushing food out of the mouth)
Recommended Quantity
Serving Sizes for Infants 6–12 Months Old:
| Age | Number of Meals | Portion Size |
| 6 months | 1 meal/day | 1–2 tablespoons |
| 7–8 months | 2 meals/day | 2–4 tablespoons |
| 9–12 months | 3 meals/day | 4–6 tablespoons |
Some Controversies around Baby Cerelac
The World Health Organization (WHO) actively recommends avoiding added sugars and sweeteners in foods for children under three years to reduce the risk of obesity.
For example, packaged foods like Cerelac, which are currently available in the market, have been widely available and trusted by parents in India for decades. However, in recent years, physicians have shifted their advice, encouraging parents to opt for healthier homemade options instead.
Reports highlight that Cerelac which is presently available, a baby food recommended for infants aged six months and above, contains 2.7 grams of added sugars per serving in India. In contrast, the same product is free of added sugars in the UK and Germany.
But why should this matter? The increase in overweight as well as obese children ranges between the ages of 0 to 5 years is of great concern in India. Although parents widely use Cerelac as a baby food product, use it carefully and always consult your child’s pediatrician for guidance.
Reference- Controversy
Conclusion
Baby Cerelac food is nutritionally balanced, safe, and convenient for introducing solid food into your baby’s diet. Cerelac provides essential nutrients, is easy to prepare, and supports growth during this critical developmental stage. However, the controversy surrounding its ingredients raises concerns. Therefore, consult your pediatrician before introducing any food item, and closely monitor your baby’s reaction to ensure it suits their needs.
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