Sambo, that is a very good question. As you are aware, the iron in things like formula and fortified rice cereal is very poorly absorbed by the body, so often babies don't get enough iron from these sources. I would be very surprised if there is enough iron absorbed from any jarred food either.

You are correct that the iron in meat is the most easily absorbed form of iron, and for this reason, as well as the fact that it is also high in zinc which is another essential nutrient for brain development, meat is now recommended as a first food for babies. I wonder if you have tried your DS with finger foods yet? Babies can eat finger food from the time they start solids so it would be fine to try him on these if you would like. Some good sources of meat to start with are spaghetti bolognaise and pieces of steak (big enough that they can't swallow them) to suck and chew on. Safe (that is smooth and strong) bones are also good for them to chew on.

If you would like to know more about introducing finger foods early, have a look at the Baby Led Solids Threads - https://www.bellybelly.com.au/forums...ed-solids.html and https://www.bellybelly.com.au/forums...atter-4-a.html.