Taste Bud
This brand offers three stages of food and boasts some of the most creative flavors we've seen. Babies who appreciate an international vibe may appreciate the Persian Excursion, which combines chickpeas with eggplant and figs. Taste Bud doesn't seem to subscribe to the idea that certain ingredients are "too sophisticated" for babies.
Where to find it: Whole Foods Market
Best for: All stages
What moms said: Both mom and baby appreciated these more "grown-up" combos. The Root Veggies, rich in fiber, had a mild sweetness that went over well with our testers. "I was surprised at how much my daughter enjoyed the odder flavor combinations," said one mother, whose 15-month-old gobbled up the Tasty Tropics and Southwest Simmer. "Everything smelled delicious and fresh," said another mom, but, she added, the internationally influenced combinations seemed a little too strongly flavored for her 16-month-old.
Rating:
Petite Palate
Founded by a chef turned mom, Petite Palate serves up classic baby food with a few subtle twists. Apple puree gets a hint of cinnamon and vanilla. A hearty lentil stew is flavored with a lovely bouquet garni.
Where to find it: Whole Foods Market
Best for: All stages
What moms said: The delicate paper packaging earned high marks with our moms—until they tried to heat them, that is. "The paper container turned soggy when I heated the food!" one mom said, adding that her 17-month-old was not a fan of the Spinach Potato Puree. "He took a few bites and then refused to eat it." Other moms felt the product tasted fine, but were disappointed by the limited flavor choices (six).
Rating:
Bobo Baby
This Canadian company specializes in frozen organic, kosher, and allergen-free baby food. They offer combinations for all stages and feature unique and highly nutritious grains.
Where to find it: Wellness Grocer
Best for: All stages
What moms said: Moms loved the pure ingredients in the stage-one single blends. Carrots are, well, just carrots (same for the squash, apples, and pears). The moms appreciated the addition of protein-rich grains to the stage-two blends, like Millet and Banana. "What's not to like?" asked one mom. But other blends, like the Pear, Quinoa, and Ginger, were pushed away by testers. "It was not a hit," said one mom. "It's too complex and not sweet enough for her American palate."
Rating:
