When you think of Haakaa’s Fresh Food Feeder and its role in introducing solids, the first thing that probably comes to mind is a chilled piece of watermelon or a soft banana slice. And while the Haakaa Fresh Food Feeder in all its wonderful designs is perfect for introducing a variety of fruits to your little one, that’s not all you can put in it. So – what else to put in your Haakaa Fresh Food Feeder? Can you use it with vegetables? Can you put meat in a Fresh Food Feeder? The answer to both of those – and more – is a huge YES. This handy tool, especially when used in combination with the Pineapple Nibble Tray, is a fantastic way to introduce new textures and flavours safely, helping with everything from starting solids to soothing sore gums.
So, what else can you fill that silicone pouch with?
Cooked Vegetables
The fresh food feeder is an ideal way to let your baby explore the taste and texture of vegetables without the risk of choking on larger pieces. You can steam or roast vegetables until they are soft and tender, then pop them into the feeder.
- Cooked Kumara or Pumpkin: These vegetables are both naturally sweet (which many babies love) as well as being highly nutritious, so they’re a win-win when it comes to introducing new foods. And because they’re soft, the texture is perfect for chewing, with those lovely mashed pieces being pushed out through the tiny holes of the feeder pouch at a rate your baby controls.
- Steamed Carrot or Peas: Still sweet and nutritious, these two vegetables offer a different texture and taste with many of the same benefits.
- Cooked Courgette (skinned) or Chopped Tomatoes: For a slightly different texture and completely different flavour profiles.
Hint: Try out the Haakaa Multipurpose Steamer & Steriliser Bag to quickly steam even small quantities of vegetables, helping you prevent waste!
Meats and Proteins
As mentioned above, your Haakaa Fresh Food Feeder can be used for introducing meat and other proteins to your baby! As they grow and their nutritional needs change, you can cook meat, lentils and beans and pop them into the feeder pouch for them to gnaw safely away on.
- Soft, Cooked Meats: You can add small pieces of cooked chicken, beef, or lamb. Ensure they are cooked until very soft and tender. The feeder will allow your baby to chew away, getting the flavour and juices, without the risk of choking on a too-large piece.
- Cooked Lentils or Beans: Both fantastic sources of plant-based protein and fibre, and again (as is the usual for the feeder), reducing the chances of your bubs accidentally choking on a bean.
Breastmilk or Purée Ice Blocks
For a fantastic teething remedy, and a way to introduce a familiar taste in a new form, try freezing breastmilk in your Pineapple Nibble Tray. The Mini Combo comes with an adorable miniature 2-compartment version, but if you feel like you need more the standard version has nine compartments, which should keep you going much longer. Likewise, trying out frozen purées doesn’t just help with new flavours and textures – the cold temperature helps soothe inflamed gums, helping provide excellent teething relief for babies.
- Frozen Breastmilk: Simply pour your expressed milk into the tray compartments, put on the lid, and place the tray carefully into the freezer. Once frozen, pop a portion into the feeder for a natural, familiar, and tasty teething remedy.
- Puréed Food Ice Blocks: You can also purée cooked fruit and vegetables. As with the milk, simply pour your purées into the tray and freeze them. This is a great way to use up leftover purées and create a nutritious, cold treat.
Hint: The Pineapple Nibble Tray Compartments (both mini and regular) are designed so that each portion fits perfectly into the feeder pouch - which means no more having to hope you've made the right size!
Dairy and Other Soft Foods
Yep, even dairy products such as yoghurt can go into your nibble tray for a lovely frozen yoghurt treat! There’s even more – try out some chopped up avocado for a fancier snack.
- Frozen Yoghurt: Frozen yoghurt is a delicious, creamy treat that's also cold and soothing for teething. As with all the other more liquid foods, pop your chosen yoghurt into the nibble tray, give it a freeze, and then bust it out to soothe those gums or as a delicious after dinner snack.
- Avocado: This is a wonderful first food, packed with healthy fats for brain development. The soft, buttery texture is perfect for the feeder – and babies, in general, love it. Easy to eat, tasty, and healthy? What could be better?
Things to Remember:
- Safety First: Always supervise your baby while they are using the fresh food feeder. While it is designed to prevent choking and stop their curious little hands getting it open, it’s always vital to remain vigilant when your little one is learning to feed themselves, no matter how they’re getting their food.
- Cleaning is Key: The silicone design of the Haakaa feeder is great for hygiene as it's easy to disassemble and clean, unlike some mesh alternatives. Simply separate the pouch and attachment (they’re a one-piece set) from the handle, and give each half a good scrub out in warm, soapy water. Rinse, then leave to dry! Just bear in mind that if you’re using vegetables with strong colours such as carrot or pumpkin, there’s a chance the silicone can stain more quickly. To avoid this, simply give the pouch a rinse more quickly than you otherwise would have.
- Listen to Your Baby: Every baby is different. Start with single ingredients and give your little one a few days to get used to a new food before introducing another. As you may have heard, it can take up to ten tries before a baby will develop a liking for a new flavour or texture! Start off with just small amounts and try not to make a big deal about it if they spit it out. There’s always next time!
From cooked veggies to frozen breastmilk mini ice blocks, the Haakaa Fresh Food Feeder is more than just a fruit holder. It's a versatile tool that can make the journey of introducing solids a fun, safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.