Spices are available in whole and ground varieties. If you want to, you can buy spices whole and use a pestle and mortar to grind them into a powder as required. All spices you buy must be produced by reputable brands and sealed with a clear expiry date on the packet. If you are unfamiliar with spice brands, buy them from well-known supermarkets only. Once the packet is opened, store the spices in a clean, dry, airtight container away from sunlight, to ensure spices remain fresh for your baby.
SPICE ADVICE
To be cautious, or if you have a known family history of allergies, I would recommend waiting 2–3 days after you introduce one spice to your little one’s diet before you introduce another. Up to 72 hours should be more than enough time for you to spot any allergic reactions baby might have to a certain spice. While allergic reactions to spices are uncommon, they can occur. So keep an eye out for tummy upsets, skin rashes, swelling of the lips and face, runny and blocked noses, sneezing, itchy watery eyes, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. If in doubt, or there is a family history of allergies to spices, please consult with your doctor or health visitor.
BEING CAUTIOUS – TESTING FOR ALLERGIES
Herbs and spices are excellent alternatives to adding salt and sugar to meals to make them tasty. The delectable aromas that herbs and spices release when they are cooked encourage baby to eat and offer layers of flavour for her to experience. Baby gets maximum yummy flavour while avoiding salt and sugar.
ALTERNATIVES TO SALT AND SUGAR
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