How to store HM baby food?

Gem_

I have been making purees from dinner leftovers and also buying ready made jars of food when we are out and about. I would really like to refill these jars rather than wasting money buying more but I am worried about what will keep and for how long?

I am used to making jam etc but clearly mushed apple is not going to keep without the additon of sugar?

Can any of you wonderful folk help?

Aril

I always used to freeze mine in ice cube trays and then just take out what I needed on the day:D
Aril

Sharra

Thats what I used to do too, freeze and zap in microwave to defrost.

MrsBartolozzi

Was going to suggest freezing in icecube trays but Aril beat me to it!
When they are frozen you can empty the cubes into a bag and reuse the tray - useful if you only have a couple of trays. (just remember to label the bags as I forgot a few times and it was a surprise come dinner time!)

xxvickixx

I only ever give my son HM baby food and when we visit my parents 2 1/2 hours drive I found a great way of ensuring the food stays frozen. If we are going for a couple of days it's OK to let it slowly defrost in the cool box then pop in the fridge on arrival but for several days it must stay frozen.

Anyway this is the tip that my friend gave me who also has long distance parents...
put the frozen cubes in a tightly lidded baby container or a plastic bag and tie the top so it is water tight. Put breakfast, lunch and dinner into another big freezer bag and fill the freezer bag with water seal the top with a clip and freeze. This way you have encased in a block of ice all your baby food ready to take out of the freezer at the other end day by day.
I know it sounds like a lot of faf buut if you are determined not to use jars, or your baby won't eat jars it can really help.

FrenchMaid_2

I always froze mine too, for days out it's great since you just pop it in a cool bag and it keeps the other snacks cool and most places have a facility to warm up, if all fails we warmed it up by suspending it into hot water bowl.

When the little ones appetite gets bigger, Sainsbury and Asda do in their cheap range little tupperwares, I bought loads of these and froze the food in them, they are about 20p each and I still use them now for stuff like snacks etc.

mum1plus1

Hi I use a mix of homemade and jars as working almost full time. I sterilise the jars in the dishwasher first, fill with HM food and when cool freeze. Its the right size portion for my LO but you have to defrost throughly and put into a bowl to microwave/heat up rather than heat the jar. As she gets older I guess its better to switch to tubs but this works for now.

one-day

Aril wrote: »

I always used to freeze mine in ice cube trays and then just take out what I needed on the day:D
Aril

the same as above

LJM

def icecube trays and the portion sizes are great

Gem_

Thanks for all the advice. I have to go away for three days (to a hotel so no freezer). I guess I will have to resort to buying jars if it is going to work to make my own?

Has no one tried this at all?

OrkneyStar

You could get a cool bag with the first days supplies in, it would defrost but stay cool enough. Heat by sitting in hot water (or adding a little hot water direct) if its thick enough (am presuming a kettle and cups in your room ?). What age is LO, could you serve him/her sandwiches or small finger food one day ?