Introducing solid foods

Introducing your baby to solid foods, also known as weaning or complementary feeding, usually starts when your baby is around six months old.

Your baby should be introduced to a varied diet, alongside their usual breast milk or first infant formula. It can be confusing knowing when and how to start.

For babies born prematurely, weaning should be based on their corrected (adjusted) age and signs of readiness, rather than their date of birth. Many premature babies are ready between 5–7 months corrected age, and parents can access guidance from their health visitor, neonatal team, or trusted organisations such as Bliss.

When to seek advice:
You should seek advice from a health visitor, GP, neonatal team or dietitian if:

Your baby was born prematurely or has ongoing medical or feeding needsYou are unsure whether their baby is ready for solid foods
Your baby struggles with feeding, gagging, or swallowing
You have concerns about growth or weight gain

Every baby is different, and starting solid foods should be based on individual readiness rather than a fixed age.

Follow any individualised feeding plans, especially if your baby has ongoing medical needs (e.g. reflux, feeding difficulties, slow growth)
Some premature babies may require earlier introduction of nutrient‑dense foods, iron‑rich foods, or texture progression support under professional guidance.