Note: This blog is not medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Please refer to your child’s healthcare provider with any specific recommendations or concerns. Be sure that your child is ready for these snacks. Always feed your child while seated and supervised. More info on choking hazards here.

So, you’re starting solids and looking for go-to snacks? Enter: melts and puffs. These mini, but mighty, options are easy and can provide a safe playground for your little one’s development.

When Can Babies Eat Yogurt Melts + Puffs?

While experts recommend introducing solids beginning at 6 months, you may not want to introduce melts and puffs right away. Nicole Lattanzio, RD, CSP, IBCLC says that “between around 6–8 months, some babies may struggle getting them to their mouth as they haven’t developed their pincer grasp yet.” Though these can be great for helping babies practice the pincer grasp once they’ve gotten a bit of a handle on it, we recommend introducing once your baby hits the below milestones:

• Puffs (10+ months) - babies should be able to crawl with the tummy off the ground, pick up food with the thumb and forefinger (pincer grasp), and be able to use their jaw to “chew” food between their gums
• Melts (12+ months) - all of the above, plus being able to stand up without support

That said, it's ultimately up to you and your child’s pediatrician or healthcare provider to determine when the best time is for your child.

Why Self-Feeding Is So Important

As mentioned, offering snacks like melts and puffs helps babies to develop their pincer grasp—the ability to hold foods using their forefinger or middle finger and thumb. Additionally, Lattanzio explains, “Self-feeding allows baby to respond to their own hunger and fullness needs at a meal as well as pick from the offered items as to what they’d like to eat.” Also, she tells us that feeding themselves allows your little one to have a more sensory-filled experience—enjoying the softness, wetness, temperatures, and tastes. These skills help expand their palate and can help set up sustaining healthy eating behaviors.

What to Look For in Snack Foods

When it comes to searching for snacks, Lattanzio says, “Pay close attention to the ingredient lists. Look for snacks that include a little fiber or protein and/or fruits and veggies.” Additionally, try to avoid added salt or sugars (e.g., cane/coconut sugar, syrups, juice concentrates). Lucky for you—and your child—Once Upon a Farm snacks, including our Fruit & Veggie Puffs and Coconut Melts, do not include added salt or sugar!*

Tips For Serving Snacks

For babies, Lattanzio suggests serving snacks like puffs, melts, and more as part of a meal. “This can help keep them as a neutral food and maintain the balance at mealtimes.” As many parents know, they may still prefer snacks. “That’s okay!” she assures us. “You’re giving the option for other foods, too. Feel free to offer additional servings as needed.”

For toddlers, she recommends offering two items at snack time. “For example, if your toddler is asking for puffs, serve along with some fruit or chopped veggies. Wanting melts? Offer some cheese or meat too.” Offering various nutrients with each meal is key.

Creating a Safe Snacktime

“Foods in general should be offered in a supervised environment.” Lattanzio shares. Offer snacks while your child is seated and encourage them to stay seated throughout eating. While “It can be tempting to offer while they’re playing or running around,” she notes, “this can significantly increase the risk of a choking incident.” More tips on avoiding choking hazards here.

It’s a universal truth that snacks are fun. By offering your little one safe and healthy finger-food snacks, you welcome them into this wonderful world and support their ongoing development.  

*Not a low-calorie or sodium-free food.