Nutrients · 8 authors, 3 centres
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This cross-sectional survey of Italian paediatricians found that traditional spoon-feeding recommendations decreased from 60% to 41% between 2015-2017 and 2022, while baby-led weaning and traditional CF with adult food tastings increased. The study is limited by voluntary response bias and lack of demographic data on respondents.
Complementary feeding (CF) is essential for infant growth and development, with practices influenced by socio-cultural factors. This study updates previous data from 2015-2017 on Italian paediatricians' recommendations. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of Italian primary care paediatricians (PCP) was conducted in 2022 using a questionnaire via Pediatotem software. 595 responses were collected and compared to the previous survey. Statistical analysis used χ² tests with p<0.01 considered significant. Key Results: Traditional spoon-feeding recommendations decreased from 60% to 41% nationally. Baby-led weaning (self-weaning) increased to 21.2%, with regional variations: North 24.9%, Centre 22.3%, South 16.7%. Traditional CF with adult food tastings rose to 37.6%. The suggested age to start CF remained at 5-6 months (91.5%), and written information provision was stable at 86.1%. Use of commercial baby foods decreased to 51.3%. Limitations: The study has voluntary response bias, lacks data on PCP demographics, is limited to the Italian context, and does not investigate socio-economic factors. Implications: The findings suggest a shift towards more BLW and traditional CF with adult tastings, indicating a trend towards more responsible feeding practices. However, the study does not provide direct clinical recommendations and is based on paediatrician opinions rather than patient outcomes.
