For individuals
Mā te takitahi
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Safe food for babies
Babies are vulnerable to foodborne illnesses (food poisoning) because their immune systems are not developed enough to fight off infections. Keep your babies and toddlers safe by following these guidelines when feeding them formula or expressed breast milk.
Safe feeding for infants
Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for newborn babies, but parents may decide to give their babies infant formula, either exclusively or in combination with breast milk.
Both infant formula and expressed breast milk must be prepared and stored carefully to minimise the growth of any bacteria that could harm your baby.
Premature, low weight, or very sick babies
Ask your doctor or health professional for advice on feeding your baby if it is premature, of low birth weight, or very sick.
Find out more
Read about feeding your baby or toddler on the Ministry of Health website:
- Breastfeeding
- Formula feeding
- Feeding your baby solids
- Food and nutrition guidelines for healthy infants and toddlers (aged 0–2)
Who to contact
If you have questions about feeding infants safely, email info@mpi.govt.nz
