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THREE IN FOUR PARENTS NOW TURN TO AI FOR WEANING SUPPORT, ALDI FINDS

14 May, 2026

Three in four parents are now turning to AI tools such as ChatGPT for help with weaning their babies, new research from Aldi reveals.

Parents are now almost as likely to use AI (52%) as they are to rely on friends and family (54%) for quick advice or reassurance, while over a third (36%) say they trust both equally.

While AI is helping to boost confidence – with 84% of parents saying it makes them feel more assured about weaning – many still feel overwhelmed. Nearly half (47%) worry about whether they’re doing it “right”, while others struggle with portion sizes (37%), what foods to introduce first (36%), and navigating conflicting advice (29%).

To support parents during National Weaning Week (11^th–15^th May), Aldi has partnered with children’s dietitian and feeding specialist Lucy Upton to provide expert-backed guidance, alongside a range of simple, affordable weaning recipes designed to make mealtimes easier for families.

Lucy notes that weaning is generally recommended from around six months, in line with NHS guidance, starting with simple foods such as soft fruit and vegetables before gradually progressing to more varied textures as they develop.

Lucy Upton’s top weaning tips:

• Use AI mindfully for feeding advice: AI can be helpful for quick reassurance – such as checking if foods are suitable or how to prepare them – but for anything specific to your child, including allergies, weight concerns, tummy issues or feeding difficulties, parents should always seek advice from a health professional
• Forget perfect portions: There is no “right” amount a baby should eat. Babies naturally regulate their own intake depending on their stage, size and appetite. Instead of measuring portions, focus on hunger cues (such as leaning forward or opening their mouth) and fullness cues (turning away or losing interest), and let your baby lead
• There is no single “right” way to wean: Every baby’s journey looks different, whether starting with baby-led weaning or moving to meals at different speeds. The goal is the same – a varied, balanced diet – so focus on offering a range of textures and tastes and building a positive relationship with food
• Cut through conflicting advice: With so much information available, it’s easy for parents to feel overwhelmed. Stick to a small number of trusted sources, such as NHS Start4Life, First Steps Nutrition Trust and qualified professionals, and sense-check anything uncertain before acting on it

Lucy said: “These findings highlight how modern parents are navigating weaning in an age of information overload. It’s no surprise many are turning to AI for quick answers and reassurance, and it’s encouraging that this is helping boost confidence.

“However, while parents may feel more confident, many still worry about whether they’re doing things ‘right’. AI can be a helpful tool, but for more individual concerns – such as allergies, growth or feeding challenges – it’s important to seek personalised advice from a qualified professional.”

Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: “We know weaning can feel overwhelming, especially with so much advice available. That’s why we’ve partnered with Lucy to offer parents simple, expert-backed guidance they can trust, alongside affordable meal ideas using everyday ingredients.”

Alongside the advice, Aldi is sharing a range of easy, budget-friendly recipes developed with Lucy, which can be found here. Designed for babies a few months into the weaning process, these include a Raspberry and Peanut Butter Soft Oaty Bake, Fish Pie Bites and a Cheat Microwave Dhal, all of which are nutritious and adaptable.

This builds on Aldi’s wider commitment to supporting families, including the return of its Mamia New Parent Fund for a second year, offering new parents the chance to receive £100 weekly vouchers to help with the cost of everyday baby essentials. For full terms and conditions, visit:

www.aldipresscentre.co.uk/terms-and-conditions-for-aldis-mamia-new-parent-fund-the-prize-draw/

ENDS