3 Tips for Carry Out BLW with Reusable Food Containers

It's possible to carry out BLW with reusable food containers to make the concept easier during periods of change, such as the summer.

Reviewed and approved by the nutritionist Saúl Sánchez Arias.

Written by Saúl Sánchez Arias

Last update: 18 October, 2022

Baby-led weaning (BLW) is a method of feeding babies that has become popular in recent years. It basically consists of offering little ones food as it is (without mashing) so that they can manipulate it and adapt little by little to its organoleptic characteristics. This helps to prevent rejection in the future. In addition, it can also be put into practice using reusable food containers.

Before starting, we must emphasize that the diet during all stages of life must be as varied as possible. This avoids nutritional deficits that can negatively condition the efficiency of human physiology. At the same time, it should be balanced, except in infancy, where a certain hypercaloric nature is positive.

Tips for making BLW in reusable food containers

Here are the best tips for making BLW in reusable food containers. This way, you’ll be able to transport the preparations almost anywhere, which makes it easier to feed your little ones in times of change, such as summer. It’ll only take a little organization to achieve several benefits.

1. Use ice packs

When transporting reusable food containers, it’s important to keep them refrigerated. This prevents food from losing organoleptic qualities or pathogenic bacteria from growing inside. The best way to achieve good preservation is the use of ice packs, which is even more positive than the use of ice on its own. The latter element melts gradually, so the water could contaminate the food.

Another good option is to buy a cooler bag that maintains cool temperatures and avoids the effects of exposure to sunlight. This way, fresh fruit can be taken anywhere. These foods are capable of providing a significant amount of vitamins, which are essential elements for any baby. Mainly, we must highlight the action of vitamin C, which has been shown to help boost the functioning of the immune system.

2. Don’t forget about vegetables

When preparing reusable food containers to carry out the BLW method, never forget plant-based foods. Especially when BLW is carried out in summer. At this time of year, the risk of dehydration is higher, so it’s key that you include in the diet some foods with a good percentage of liquid inside. Both fruits and vegetables are ideal for this. In addition, they can be steamed in the case of the latter, to then transport them cold and prevent them from losing quality from the organoleptic point of view.

3. Cook perishable foods well

It’s common for reusable food containers to include foods of animal origin with high protein content inside. According to a study published in the journal Cell Reports, these nutrients are essential for the proper development of the body’s tissues. However, we’re talking about foodstuffs that can harbor pathogenic bacteria inside, at least if basic precautionary measures aren’t taken.

As a general rule, it’s important for meat, fish, and eggs to reach 150 degrees all the way through in order to destroy any pathogens that may exist inside. This way, and as long as care is taken during transport, the risks will be minimized. Otherwise, your child may experience really unpleasant intestinal alterations.

Make BLW in reusable food containers

As you’ve seen, if you take into account some simple tips, you can make BLW in reusable food containers efficiently. This way, you’ll be able to guarantee a good nutritional state in your little one and, at the same time, allow them to enjoy the task of eating. This way, they’ll be able to adapt to the textures and flavors of different foods, which will allow their diet to be more varied and healthy in the future.

Finally, keep in mind that, even in the context of BLW, it’s key to ensure an adequate nutritional intake. This way, the development of diseases enhanced by mineral and vitamin deficiencies can be prevented. To this end, it may be necessary to supplement the food you prepare with other preparations such as purees. They can also be prepared at home and even frozen for days when time is short.