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Vegan baby food does not contain any ingredients which come from animals, regardless of the way in which they have been derived. The products have no dairy ingredients and no egg ingredients. They have only ingredients which come from plants. These provide the nutrients, vitamins and minerals which the youngsters need to grow healthy, strong and smart. It is worth looking at the plant ingredients which replace the traditional animal ones in vegan baby food.
Protein is an essential nutrient as it delivers amino acids, which are the building blocks of tissues, to the body. Since it cannot come from meat in the vegan diet, it is replaced by tofu and legumes such as beans, lentils and chickpeas. These are excellent sources of plant protein. Foods containing these ingredients are suitable from 6+ months.
Babies are born with optimal amounts of iron in their body, but it is slowly depleted during the first six months of their lives. While they get good amounts of this mineral with breastmilk, they should get it from food as well. When meat is out of the equation, the top plant sources of iron should be considered. These include leafy greens like broccoli and soybeans. Older children who can consume sugar can also be given dried fruits such as figs.
Calcium is another important mineral which young children traditionally get from cow’s milk and meat. In vegan baby food, these ingredients are replaced by leafy greens and soybeans. The alternatives to cow’s milk, in particular, which is generally suitable from 12+ months, include almond milk and soy milk.
One vitamin which vegan babies and young children cannot get without eating meat and eggs is vitamin B12. That is why paediatricians typically recommend supplementation. Generally, you should consult your child’s doctor about his/her nutrition before you introduce solid food. The professional will provide detailed guidance to help you come up with a diet which matches your family’s lifestyle.