Ritz crackers are not recommended for babies. The main ingredient in Ritz crackers is enriched flour, which may provide sufficient nutrients for an adult but does not have the right amounts of vitamins and minerals that a growing baby needs.
Another concern with Ritz crackers is that they contain high levels of sodium, which can be damaging to a baby’s developing kidneys. Finally, Ritz crackers are also relatively high in calories and may cause weight gain if eaten regularly by a baby.
Many other types of snacks are better for babies, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt, or whole-grain bread and cereals. If you’re looking for a cracker-like snack that you should be safe for baby, try puffed rice cakes or whole-wheat toast.
If your child is old enough to eat solid food (about 4 months), it’s time to introduce healthy finger foods like pieces of soft, cooked vegetables and fruits; steamed and mashed beans; pasta; moistened cereals; and pieces of lean meat, poultry, or fish. Many babies start with just one new food at a time, but you can offer different choices each day until your baby has tried everything safe.
At 6 months of age, introduce whole milk in a cup while continuing to breastfeed or formula feed. By the middle of the first year, most babies are eating three meals and two or three snacks a day.
If you have any questions about what foods are appropriate for your baby, consult with your pediatrician.
FAQS
Q: What are Ritz crackers?
A: Ritz crackers are made by Nabisco, and are a type of hard-baked biscuit that is usually topped with salt. They come in several flavors, including original, reduced-fat (made with part whole wheat flour), jalapeño cheddar jack, pumpernickel, and hearty whole grain.
Q: Are Ritz crackers good for babies?
A: No, Ritz crackers are not recommended for babies. They contain high levels of sodium and calories, which can be damaging to a baby’s developing kidneys and weight gain. Many other types of snacks are better for babies, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, yogurt, or whole-grain bread and cereals.
Q: How can I tell if my baby is old enough to eat solid foods?
A: At 6 months of age, introduce whole milk in a cup while continuing to breastfeed or formula feed. By the middle of the first year, most babies are eating three meals and two or three snacks a day.
Q: How can I tell if my baby is old enough to eat Ritz crackers? Are there other things that this age of baby could safely eat?
A: No, there are no other cracker types that are safe for older 6-month-olds. Consult with your pediatrician if you have any questions about what foods are appropriate for your baby.
Q: Can I give my baby water instead of whole milk?
A: No, babies should not drink water until they are at least 6 months old. Breastmilk or formula provides all the hydration a baby needs until they are old enough to drink water. After 6 months, babies can start drinking water in addition to their breastmilk or formula, but should not replace either with water.