Keeping Your Little One's Food Safe This Monsoon

The monsoon brings extra humidity and warmth—perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply rapidly in food. For babies and toddlers with developing immune systems, food poisoning can be particularly serious during this season.

**Smart Food Storage:** Always store cooked food in the refrigerator within 2 hours. During monsoon, avoid keeping cut fruits or cooked dal, rice, or vegetables at room temperature for more than an hour. Breast milk remains the safest option for babies under 6 months. For older children, freshly prepared khichdi, idli, or upma are safer than reheated foods.

**Water & Washing:** Always use boiled and cooled water for drinking and making formula. Wash all fruits and vegetables with clean water, even if you plan to peel them. Bananas, apples, and steamed vegetables are safer choices than leafy greens during heavy rains. Avoid street food completely for children under 5.

**Hygiene Habits:** Wash your hands with soap before preparing food and feeding your child. Sterilize bottles, nipples, and sippy cups daily by boiling them for 5-10 minutes. Check expiry dates on packaged foods—humidity can spoil them faster.

Remember, when in doubt, throw it out! A little extra caution now prevents tummy troubles and keeps your little one healthy and happy through the monsoon.

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