Pediatricians warn against raw or undercooked foods for infants

Medical experts, including the Indonesian Pediatric Society (IDAI), are warning parents against feeding raw or undercooked foods, such as eggs, meat, and fish, to infants and children under two years old. These foods pose a significant risk of bacterial contamination from pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to gastrointestinal infections, fever, vomiting, and severe dehydration.

Following reports of an infant death in Surabaya, East Java, linked to the consumption of raw eggs, health professionals emphasized that while fully cooked eggs are an excellent source of protein for complementary foods (MPASI), safety is paramount. Experts recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, with complementary foods typically introduced at six months. Proper cooking is essential to protect the sensitive digestive systems and developing immunity of young children.