What is a nibbler and how does it help in complementary feeding

Proper feeding of the baby lays his healthy eating habits and taste preferences. Nibbler became an unexpected helper in this difficult period for parents. Some are sure that mashed food and a spoon are enough for feeding, others do not even know about the existence of this gadget. But there are those who have already appreciated the convenience and benefits not only for themselves, but most importantly, for the child. Let’s figure out together what a nibbler is and how to use it.

What is a nibbler?

This is a container nipple filled with pieces of fresh fruits or vegetables, which the baby holds himself. The baby, pressing with gums or teeth on a silicone or textile mesh, sucks out fresh juice with pulp without the risk of choking on a large piece.

This simple, but at the same time original item is called differently: nibbler, fruittaker or foot feeder. From English, the translation of the word “nibbler” means “feeder”.

Nibbler is easily disassembled into parts:

• Nylon mesh bag or silicone teat with multiple holes
• Handle for ease of use
• Connecting device that hermetically closes the product
• Protective cap that allows you to take the nibbler in a stroller or bag

How to use Nibbler?

Nibbler is easy to use: take an apple, wash it and cut off a piece 1cm x 1cm. For the age of 4-5 months, you can cut smaller. We put the product in a mesh or silicone container, screw it in or close it until it stops or clicks (depending on the model) so that the child does not accidentally open the container and pour everything on himself. We protect clothes with a napkin or bib. We remove the cap and give it to the pens. The first days we help the baby, then he himself will hold him in his hands, gnaw and chew.

After each use, carefully wash and sterilize the nibbler with a mild detergent for children’s dishes.

What is the difference between Nibbler models?

Let’s start with the material of the mesh: nylon is light weight and able to take the shape of the product, and is also a fairly practical material for one-time use, but it also has its drawbacks. Firstly, it quickly loses its original color and changes it from the effects of acids contained in the fruits and berries that the baby will eat from it. Secondly, the material becomes rough after 2-3 applications and drying, which can cause discomfort and chafing. Thirdly, the material very quickly absorbs odors, which, unfortunately, cannot be removed by any means. And the main, fourth minus of the mesh is that microparticles of food get stuck in the tissue and can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

Silicone mesh is a more familiar, easy-care and long-lasting option. Food-grade silicone used for the production of children’s nibblers is hypoallergenic, easy to clean and sterilize. In addition, it can be used as a cooling teether, at the stage of the appearance of the first teeth. You just need to put the nibbler in the refrigerator, and after 5-7 minutes you will get a comfortable, chilled teether for a gentle and pleasant massage of the gums. The handle can be made of safe plastic or non-slip rubber. For the smallest, a ring handle is suitable, and for 6-8 months, an oblong handle, which children use as a teether, will be more convenient.

What kind of food can be put into the nibbler?

• Fruits and berries: pear, kiwi, orange, strawberry, raspberry, wild strawberry, etc.

Citrus fruits will be a bright new sensation in the life of the crumbs, but the main thing is not to mix different fruits and berries at first, and also track preferences and reactions to them, because they can often be an allergen for the body.

• Bread, meat or boiled vegetables

When feeding from a nibbler, you need to remember that the products in it should not be too soft, because then the whole process of switching to solid food loses its meaning, and too hard, since the child can scratch the gums on crusts and crackers.

Nibblers from the company KUNDER

Using a nibbler, you will be convinced of its usefulness, because it:

• develops the child’s chewing skills
• introduces solid foods without the risk of swallowing a large bite
• helps to quickly wean from breastfeeding and easier to accustom to complementary foods
• relieve itching and anxiety during teething