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It is generally recommended that infants be fed breast milk or an iron-fortified infant formula until they are at least 12 months old. After this age, cow’s milk can be introduced as a source of nutrition, although it is not recommended as a main drink until around 2 years old. Whole milk is generally recommended for children under 2 years old due to its higher fat and nutrient content. Semi-skimmed milk can be introduced once a child is 2 years old, although it is not necessary to switch from whole milk at this age. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on feeding your child cow’s milk.
What a baby can and can’t have is one of the most searched phrases on search engines in the UK, most of the answers are straight forward and most reputable websites do a decent job of answering them. But, a question which doesn’t get answered very well or explained is whether or not babies can have semi-skimmed (green) milk safely.
We’ve decided to give the lowdown and answer the question itself and explain why this questions is contentious in the first place.
What is semi skimmed milk?
Contents
Semi-skimmed milk is a type of cow’s milk that has had some of the fat removed. It is often referred to as “reduced fat” or “low fat” milk in some countries. The fat content of semi-skimmed milk is typically around 1.7%, compared to whole milk which has a fat content of around 3.5%.
Semi-skimmed milk is produced by separating the cream from the milk using a process called centrifugation. The cream is then removed, and the remaining milk is homogenized to distribute the remaining fat evenly throughout the milk. Semi-skimmed milk is usually pasteurized, which involves heating the milk to a high temperature to kill any bacteria that may be present.
Semi-skimmed milk can be used in the same way as whole milk, and is often used in cooking and baking. It is also a popular choice for people who want a lower fat option for drinking.
How does semi skimmed milk differ from infant formula?
Infant formula is a manufactured food that is designed to provide the necessary nutrition for infants who are not breastfed or who are unable to breastfeed. Infant formula is regulated by the government and is required to meet specific nutrient requirements.
In comparison to semi-skimmed milk, infant formula contains a higher amount of protein, fat, and other nutrients that are necessary for the growth and development of infants. Infant formula is also fortified with iron, which is an important nutrient that is often lacking in cow’s milk.
When can you give babies semi skimmed milk?
It is generally recommended that infants be fed breast milk or an iron-fortified infant formula until they are at least 12 months old. After this age, cow’s milk can be introduced as a source of nutrition, although it is not recommended as a main drink until around 2 years old.
Cow’s milk is not suitable for infants under 12 months old due to its low iron content and the fact that it can be difficult for them to digest. Infants have a higher requirement for iron than older children and adults, and breast milk or infant formula is a better source of this nutrient for young infants.
After 12 months, cow’s milk can be introduced as a drink, although whole milk is generally recommended for children under 2 years old due to its higher fat and nutrient content. Semi-skimmed milk can be introduced once a child is 2 years old, although it is not necessary to switch from whole milk at this age. It is important to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on feeding your child cow’s milk.
Resources
here are a few sources that provide more information on the recommendations for feeding cow’s milk to children in the UK:
- NHS (UK National Health Service): “Milk and dairy in your diet” https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/milk-and-dairy-in-your-diet/
- British Dietetic Association: “Milk and dairy foods: good for your health?” https://www.bda.uk.com/foodfacts/milkdairy.pdf
- Public Health England: “Start4Life: Feeding your toddler” https://www.nhs.uk/start4life/toddler/feeding-your-toddler/
- Department of Health and Social Care (UK Government): “The Eatwell Guide” https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-eatwell-guide
I hope these sources are helpful! It is always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on feeding your child.
