OBJECTIVE: To analyze complementary feeding in the first two years of life. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study with seven hundred and twenty-four children, residents of the city of Salvador (Bahia, Brazil) and chosen by randomized sampling using a three stage-design. Information concerning dietary intake was collected by 24-hour dietary recalls and processed by means of the Virtual Nutri Program. The STATA software, which includes the effect of statistical weighting, was used for data analysis. RESULTS: The children were found to be weaned early, breastfeeding decreasing significantly from the sixth month on, when it was replaced by whole powder milk-based formulas with added thickening agent and sugar. The relative contribution of carbohydrates in the caloric value of the diet was found to increase with age whereas the presence of lipids was shown to decrease significantly. The mean distribution of dietary energy and protein was found to be above the recommended level for all age groups, although intra-group intake variability was observed to be high. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were offered to 90% of the children in this study. CONCLUSION: Supplementary food was given very early in life and offered in small amounts that did not meet recommended dietary allowances, especially with respect to micronutrients.
suplementary feeding; dietary intake; weaning; chind nutrition
