Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile

Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.

beginning of content

How much food at 6 to 12 months? - text version

1-minute read

When they are showing signs they are ready, usually at around 6 months, you can start to introduce solid foods.

Their main source of food will still be breast milk or formula.

Start once a day with iron-rich baby cereal or pureed meat or tofu.

Texture is important. As your baby begins to take food from a spoon, move to thicker textures and soft lumps.

Allergy foods

You should start introducing common allergy foods from around 6 months. Try one type of food at a time, then wait a couple of days before trying another. Common allergy foods include cow’s milk, eggs, nuts, wheat and seafood.

Remember: don’t give your baby whole nuts as they are a choking hazard.

Daily needs - How much?

There is no exact amount to how much your baby should eat each day. Try different foods and let them guide you to when they are full.

By 8 to 9 months, you can give solids at breakfast, lunch and dinner. As your baby gets older, move to thicker textures and soft lumps.

See this list as an infographic.

Learn more here about the development and quality assurance of healthdirect content.

Last reviewed: March 2019


Back To Top

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.