Scientific Opinion on the appropriate age for introduction of complementary feeding of infants EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA)

Following a request from the Commission, the Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies was asked to deliver a scientific opinion on the appropriate age for the introduction of complementary food for infants in the EU. Many European countries have adopted the WHO recommendation for the duration of exclusive breast-feeding for 6 months, whilst other countries recommend the introduction of complementary feeding between 4 and 6 months. The Panel agrees with WHO and other authoritative national and international bodies that breast-milk is the preferred food for infants, but the focus in this opinion are the factors which determine the appropriate age for the introduction of complementary food into infants. diets. The Panel has evaluated predominantly studies in breast-fed healthy infants born at term for indicators of an appropriate age at which to introduce complementary food irrespective of existing recommendations on breast-feeding duration and on exclusivity of breast-feeding. The Panel has focussed its evaluation on data from developed countries. On the basis of present knowledge, the Panel concludes that the introduction of complementary food into the diet of healthy term infants in the EU between the age of 4 and 6 months is safe and does not pose a risk for adverse health effects (both in the short-term, including infections and retarded or excessive weight gain, and possible long-term effects such as allergy and obesity). Consistent with these conclusions, presently available data on the risk of celiac disease and type 1 diabetes mellitus support also the timing of the introduction of gluten containing food (preferably while still breast-feeding) not later than 6 months of age. Exclusive breast-feeding provides adequate nutrition up to 6 months of age for the majority of infants, while some infants may need complementary foods before 6 months ( but not before 4 months) in addition to breast-feeding in order to support optimal growth and development.