When starting solids for a 6-month-old, which choice is commonly introduced first?

• A. Rice cereal.
• B. Fruits.
• C. Egg yolks.
• D. Yellow vegetables.

Answer: (A)

When starting solids around six months, the priority is iron intake paired with a smooth, easy-to-digest texture. Infants at this age begin to need more iron, especially if they’re breastfed, and iron-fortified cereals provide a reliable, single-grain source that’s gentle on the stomach. A common first solid like rice cereal fits this need: it’s usually fortified with iron, has a bland flavor that doesn’t overwhelm the infant, and its smooth consistency helps the baby learn to swallow from a spoon without choking hazards.

Fruits, while nutritious, don’t supply iron in meaningful amounts and introduce sweetness early, which can shape taste preferences. Egg yolk is a potential allergen and is not typically the first choice when the goal is a gentle, iron-rich introduction. Yellow vegetables are healthy and can follow, but they don’t address the immediate iron needs as effectively as iron-fortified cereal does. So the best initial option aligns with meeting iron requirements and easing the transition to solids.