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Abstract
In this paper we discuss the measurement of feeding behaviour and food intake over the weaning period. In addition to the methods for analysing breast- or bottle-feeding discussed in the preceding paper, this period also calls for the analysis of feeding on solids. In the weaning period consideration of the textures involved (liquids, purees and solids) is important, and the preference concepts used with infants need to be widened to include a consideration of neophobia and finickiness. A very small number of behavioural studies analyse suckling and the feeding on solids simultaneously in the same infants, behaviour that is characteristic of the weaning period, and raises important questions about the relationship between the two. Feeding in infancy and over the weaning period are important particularly in relation to the child's growth, and we conclude by discussing recently developed methods for measuring relevant body components and their change over time.