Jakarta, ThedailyID — Many parents wonder whether UHT milk is safe for babies. While it offers essential nutrients and is widely available, experts say timing matters.
According to Dr. Asti Praborini and Dr. Dyah Febriyanti in Antiribet MPASI (2023), babies can start drinking pasteurized cow’s milk or UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk after they turn one year old.
However, UHT milk should not become a child’s main source of nutrition.
Instead, toddlers should continue breastfeeding as needed. They should also eat a balanced family diet to meet their nutritional needs.
Experts recommend limiting cow’s milk intake to about 400 milliliters, or two cups, per day.
Children also do not need cow’s milk if they receive enough nutrients from breast milk and food.
Why babies under one should avoid UHT milk
Health experts advise against giving UHT milk to babies younger than 12 months.
At that age, their digestive system and kidneys are still developing.
Giving cow’s milk too early may cause several health concerns, including:
- High protein and mineral levels can place extra strain on a baby’s kidneys.
- Immature kidneys increase the risk of dehydration.
- Cow’s milk contains less iron and vitamin C than breast milk.
- Early consumption may raise the risk of iron-deficiency anemia, which can affect growth and brain development.
For these reasons, breast milk or infant formula remains the recommended source of nutrition during a baby’s first year.
How to introduce UHT milk
Health Hub recommends introducing cow’s milk gradually after a child turns one.
Parents can make the transition easier by:
- Mixing a small amount of UHT milk with breast milk or formula before increasing the proportion gradually.
- Adding milk to foods such as oatmeal, porridge, or smoothies.
- Offering milk in a relaxed environment without forcing the child to finish it.
If a toddler refuses UHT milk, parents should not worry.
Children can also get calcium from plain yogurt, cheese, and other calcium-rich foods.
Parents should focus on providing a balanced diet rather than relying on milk alone.
