A Comprehensive Review on Formulation of Baby Foods: Nutraceutical Potential of Fruits, Vegetables, Cereals and Probiotics in Baby Food Preparation

The purpose of this review is to thoroughly explore and document the potential uses of fruits and vegetables as baby food. It aims to achieve several key objectives, including the identification of phytochemical compounds present in fruits and vegetables, the assessment of their biological properties, and the examination of their practical applications in the baby food. Ultimately, this review seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how fruits and vegetables can be used as baby food and enhance food quality in terms of nutritional value. Nutritional challenges in babies due to dietary factors have become an escalating issue in recent times. The incorporation of solid foods into a baby’s diet is of utmost importance for their overall growth and well-being. Inappropriate dietary practices leads to nutrient deficiencies, food allergies, and obesity. Cereal foods gained prominence as a popular choice for complementary baby feeding due to their convenience, nutrient content, and ease of digestion. Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, thus boost their immune system, regulates bowel, prevent constipation and makes babies healthier. Fruits, vegetables and cereal products are essential for wellbeing of developing babies compared to dairy and cereal based food products. Furthermore, inclusion of fruit, vegetable, and cereal-based (rice) ingredients in baby food acts as prebiotics for enhancing probiotic growth. Additionally, exposing babies to variety of flavors and textures promote babies to eat these nutritious food products.