Before the invention of formula, babies who were unable to be breastfed relied on alternative sources of milk. In early modern Europe and early America, when wet nurses were not affordable or available, caregivers had to find other ways to feed their infants. This often involved using animal milk, water, or broth mixed with various types of grains.
One common practice was to mix animal milk with flour, bread, or other grains to create a type of porridge or gruel. This mixture would be cooked and then fed to the baby. The type of animal milk used varied depending on what was available in the region. Cow’s milk was a popular choice, but goat’s milk and sheep’s milk were also used.
The addition of grains to the milk helped to thicken the mixture and provide additional nutrients. Wheat, barley, and oats were commonly used grains in these early baby foods. The mixture would be cooked to soften the grains and make it easier for the infant to digest.
Another alternative was to mix water or broth with grains, similar to the Wabanaki blend of nut milk and cornmeal. This would create a thin, soupy consistency that could be fed to the baby. The grains would provide some nutritional value, while the liquid helped to hydrate the infant.
It is important to note that these alternative baby foods were not as nutritionally balanced as breast milk or modern-day formula. They lacked certain essential nutrients and could be difficult for infants to digest. Additionally, hygiene and sanitation practices were not as advanced during this time period, so there was an increased risk of contamination and illness.
Personal experiences from this time period are limited, but historical accounts suggest that alternative baby foods were often a last resort for caregivers who could not afford or access a wet nurse. It was a challenging and uncertain time for infant feeding practices, with a higher likelihood of infant mortality and health issues.
Before the invention of formula, caregivers who could not afford a wet nurse turned to alternative sources of milk for their infants. Animal milk mixed with grains was a common choice, as well as water or broth mixed with grains. These early baby foods were not as nutritionally balanced as breast milk or formula and posed potential health risks. It was a challenging time for infant feeding practices, and the invention of formula brought significant advancements in infant nutrition.