FOOD PREPARATION SAFETY GUIDELINES

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services has a useful chart and the CDC has some excellent resources on meal preparation guidelines to keep your family safe from food-borne illness. Your toddler is vulnerable to these types of illnesses as their immune system is continuing to develop. For more information please refer to the links below: 

ADVICE ON CONSUMING FISH AND SHELLFISH

Although fish and shellfish are a very important part of a well-balanced and healthy diet, there are concerns regarding the levels of mercury and other contaminants found in seafood. If you have any questions about which types and how much fish/shellfish to feed your toddler, the FDA does a great job addressing all of these concerns. 

TODDLER FEEDING SAFETY

Toddlers should eat while seated. They should not walk or run while eating. Additionally, toddlers should not be given any food to eat in their carseats. If they happen to choke on something; you won’t be able to help them while you are driving.

Toddlers should be supervised whenever they are eating. Their caretakers should also take or have taken an infant/toddler CPR course, so they will know what to do in case of an emergency.

Foods should be prepared in sizes and consistency that make them easy for your toddler to chew and swallow. This next point is particularly an issue when it comes to meats, food should be prepared so it is not overly tough, rubbery or dry. Some ways to ensure meats are easier to chew are to offer chicken thighs instead of the breast, use oils, prepare a meatloaf, ground meats with sauces, or meatballs (cut up of course), or offered in casseroles, stews, or soups. 

Where applicable, prepare foods below safely for this age group. 

Some foods may be choking hazards for children under 4 years old and should be adapted before serving.

When applicable all foods should be prepared using current food safety guidelines.