Nutrition
Please take a moment to explore the nutritional data and the benefits of the herbs and spices we use in our recipes. As well as related allergy information pertaining to our foods. We also added some general nutritional facts that we hope you find helpful. Please note that the information provided on these pages are just guidelines, always consult your pediatrician to discuss your baby's nutritional needs.
Our Nutritional Facts
Do you peruse the label for nutritional information and ingredients before you buy your baby food? Reading the nutrition label will help you to make healthy food choices for your child. American Dietary Guidelines are not applicable to children up to age two and are only required on products manufactured for those aged four years or older. This can be confusing when reading the nutritional facts on labels of baby food. Because of this, baby food labels list different information from labels on adult food products. When a label is present on baby food it will be in the traditional nutrition facts format, but the labeling is only provided to assists parents with the type and amount of nutrients a product contains. In most cases baby food products list a serving size calculated for an average amount that a baby will eat in one feeding.
Our nutritional facts label data value uses the traditional 2,000-calorie diet and the serving size is based on a single serving average of 4 ounces. The information on our nutrition labels is displayed only to assist you in making an informed healthy food selection for your child. For nutrition requirements and recommended calorie intake for your child please consult your pediatrician.
Green Legume Organic ingredients: Peas, Fresh Mint |
Mary Pears Organic ingredients: Apples, Pears, Rosemary |
Orchard Fresh Organic ingredients: Apricots, Apples, Cinnamon |
Roasted Roots Organic ingredients: Carrots, Sweet Potato, Thyme |
Winter Delight Organic ingredients: Butternut Squash, Acorn Squash, Pumpkin, Apples, Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg |
Grits N' Greens Organic ingredients: Yellow Corn Grits, Cheddar Cheese, Seasonal Greens, Salt |
Moroccan Spice Organic ingredients: Whole Wheat Couscous, Sweet Potato, Raisins, Cinnamon |
Native Gold Organic ingredients: Butternut Squash, Cream, Sage, Parmigiano |
Wholesome Harvest Organic ingredients: Carrots, Butternut Squash, Apples, Sage, Unsalted Butter |
Bubby's Chicken Soup Organic ingredients: Chicken, Carrots, Celery, Parsnips, Onions, Brown Rice, Flat-Leafed Parsley, Dill |
Lip-Smacking Mac Organic ingredients: Whole Wheat Pasta, Cheddar Cheese, Chicken, Chicken Broth, Mushrooms, Cream, Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano |
O'Leary Beef Stew Organic ingredients: Beef, Potatoes, Beef Stock, Tomato, Onions, Celery, Carrots, Garlic, Thyme, Bay Leaf, Olive Oil |
Allergy Information
Dealing with food allergies-or the fear of finding such allergies in your baby-can be one of the biggest sources of anxiety when starting solids. Recent Center for Disease Control Statistics indicate food allergies in U.S. children under 18 have increased by almost 20 percent in recent years. The debate is ongoing as to why.
We know that all parents want to introduce solids in the smartest way to avoid the risk of developing an allergy. We felt the same way when we started solids with our little ones. The following information is designed to help you make decisions on solid foods and allergies. Always consult with your pediatrician first before starting solids or on potential allergic reactions.
Top Allergenic Foods
Any food could cause a food allergy, but according to the American Academy of Pediatrics most food allergies are caused by:
- Cow milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Soy
- Wheat
- Nuts from trees (such as walnuts, pistachios, pecans, cashews)
- Fish (such as tuna, salmon, cod)
- Shellfish (such as shrimp, lobster)
Allergenic Foods in Our Recipes
We have attempted to avoid highly allergenic foods as much as possible in creating our recipes for Urban Baby Gourmet. Some recipes have a few ingredients that may pose an allergic risk in some babies, please take a moment to review the ingredients for each fare. When trying a new (and especially potentially allergenic) food, always test a small amount first.
Latest AAP Recommendations
In January 2008, the AAP revised its recommendations on whether or not to avoid certain foods while pregnant, nursing or in the first year of a baby's life. The current recommendations state that delaying the introduction of some allergenic foods does not necessarily have an impact on eliminating or reducing severity of allergies in most children.
For more information on the current recommendations see
http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/pediatrics;121/1/183
For more general information on allergies and their symptoms, see
http://aap.org/healthtopics/asthma.cfm
Benefits of Herbs & Spices
Herbs and spices are used all over the world in baby & toddler food but are seldom used by American parents. Our lack of diversity can lead to unhealthy eating habits in the future. Numerous studies have shown that eating patterns and food preferences are established early in life. In fact, researchers report that feeding experiences during the first year of life may largely contribute to food likes and dislikes throughout life. Exposing babies & toddlers to herbs and spices, helps to mold their palates and teaches them to enhance the flavors of their food naturally, without the use of sugar or salt.
Below you will find nutritional details about the spice we use.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices known it is an excellent source of manganese and a very good source of dietary fiber, calcium and iron. Studies show that just smelling the wonderful odor of this sweet spice boosts brain activity. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties in addition to consuming cinnamon can improve the body's ability to utilize blood sugar, lower high cholesterol levels, and can provide relief from constipation or diarrhea.
Dill
Dill has been used for its medicinal and culinary properties for years and it is a very good source of calcium, manganese, and iron. The health benefits of dill include good digestion, relief from insomnia, hiccups, diarrhea, dysentery, menstrual disorders, respiratory disorders, cancer, etc. It is also good for oral care.
Garlic
Garlic has a well deserved reputation as an 'herbal wonder' and is often considered to promote optimal health. It has a variety of powerful sulfur-containing compounds responsible for many of its health-promoting effects. In addition, garlic is an excellent source of manganese, a good source of selenium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. The health benefits of garlic are numerous; it has many cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral benefits and it is thought to be protective against many cancers.
Mint
Mint is an ancient herb used for its culinary, medicinal, and aromatic properties. It is an excellent source of manganese, vitamin C and vitamin A, and a good source of dietary fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B2, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, and copper. Mint promotes digestion, soothes the stomach, is a quick remedy for nausea and headaches, and can be used for treating insect bites. It also assists with respiratory disorders, asthma, skin care, oral care, and cancer.
Parsley
Parsley is often overlooked, but it is very nutritional and is an excellent source in vitamin A, C, K and a good source of iron and folate. Parsley is a good source of anti-oxidants, can protection against rheumatoid arthritis, and promotes cardiovascular health.
Rosemary
Rosemary is much more than just a culinary herb it is a good source of iron, calcium, manganese and dietary fiber. Often used to stimulating the immune system, increasing circulation, and improve digestion and stomach upsets. Rosemary has been shown to increase the blood flow to the head and brain, improving concentration and reliving headaches.
Sage
Sage leaves serve both medicinal and culinary purposes. Sage contains alpha- and beta-thujone, volatile oils, camphor, and cineole as well as other constituents including rosmarinic acid, tannins, and flavonoids. Clinical studies indicate that sage offer s antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral benefits and is often used for upset stomach and excessive sweating.
Thyme
Thyme is an impressive health-supportive herb and is a nutrient dense spice. It is an excellent source of iron, manganese, vitamin K, and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Thyme is used to help chest and respiratory problems including coughs, bronchitis, and chest congestion and has a significant amount of anti-oxidants.
Nutritional FAQ
When and how should I start my baby on solid foods?
Between the ages four and six months is a good time to introduce baby to solid foods. Gradually offer one nutrient-rich food every few days, making sure baby has mastered each one before trying a new one. Do not mix two foods until baby has mastered each one, at least in this early phase. Iron-fortified infant cereals and simple pureed fruits and vegetables (avocados, bananas, sweet potatoes, peas, carrots, apples) are generally where parents start, however, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that there is little evidence on whether fruits, veggies or meats are better first foods. In fact, for some babies, meat may even be a good early food. Always consult with your pediatrician if you have questions or concerns on when to start and what to feed your baby. For more information on the AAP recommendations, visit http://www.aap.org/publiced/BR_Solids.htm.
How much should my baby or toddler eat?
In the beginning solid food phase, do not be concerned with how much baby eats. Breast milk and/or formula will continue to be baby's primary source of nutrition for several more months. Eating may be erratic; some days or some foods may generate lots of interest and others very little. As your baby starts to transition to more dependence on nutrition from solids and less from milk, you should see him or her evolve into eating a more consistent three meals a day with two or three snacks (although pickiness and fickleness will come and go!). According to the AAP, the average toddler should drink about 16 to 24 ounces of milk (or two to three nursings), no more than 4 to 6 ounces of juice each day, have two or three small healthy snacks, and should have three meals in serving sizes about 1/4 of an adult serving size. How much your individual child eats will still vary; usually by a year they will start to let you know when they are disinterested or 'all done.' Always consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns over how much or how little your baby is eating.
When is my baby ready for Urban Baby Gourmet food?
Urban Baby Gourmet stage 1 food 'Silky & Smooth' is designed for babies 6 months and older who have mastered several single nutrient-rich spoon-fed food and are looking to start mixing. Stage 2 food 'Thick & Saucy' are for babies aged roughly 8 months and older who have mastered a dozen or more of individual foods. Babies at this stage are starting to get interested in foods with more texture and are starting to self-feed with their hands. Several foods in this stage can be good both spoon-fed and self-fed, as they stick well on spoons and can be rolled in balls. Stage 3 food 'Hearty & Chunky' is for babies and toddlers roughly age 10 months and older who have mastered several dozen foods and are looking for fuller meals and richer flavors and textures. These foods are great for babies and toddlers that are starting to self-feed with a spoon or still those feeding with their hands (or, in many cases, some of both!).
How is Urban Baby Gourmet different from organic jarred baby food?
Urban Baby Gourmet food is fresher than organic jarred baby food. To undergo the canning process, jarred food must be heated to very high temperatures'much higher han food is generally cooked at home'that often deplete some of the food's best nutrients. Jarred food also many have sat on a shelf for months or even a year, which means the food inside, while still healthy to eat, may have been picked more than a year ago. There is no way that jarred food can compare to fresh food in nutritional benefits or taste. While our babies tried and ate some of the simple fruit and veggie jars, the more complex jarred meals rarely got the seal of approval from our kids. Our food has passed the test and is handmade locally by mothers, like you, not mass produced by a large, out-of-state manufacturer.
How is Urban Baby Gourmet different from homemade baby food?
Urban Baby Gourmet is comparable to food made in your own home in the sense that it is purchased and prepared fresh for your baby. However, there are also several key differences. Urban Baby Gourmet food is made in a commercial commissary kitchen, so it meets all state health specifications that a home kitchen cannot. Because we also utilize fresh organic herbs and spices, it is more cost effective and efficient than making these same dishes at home. While we fully support making your own homemade baby food (after all, we did it ourselves!), some of these recipes take some time and are best prepared in larger quantities than make sense to do at home for one baby. We hope our food can serve as a great complement to your own homemade recipes or can take the place of your homemade food in particularly hectic weeks or months.
What vitamins and minerals are important for my baby?
Like adults, all babies need carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water. During the first four to six months of life, breastmilk and/or infant formula provide all of these essential nutrients that baby needs. Beyond this period, solid foods begin to complement breastmilk or formula and, over time, will become more significant to baby's nutritional intake. Some of the important nutrients that solids bring to baby include Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and iron- and fiber-rich foods. To see which vitamins and minerals are found in each of our recipes, just click on the titles.