Question: We've been feeding our 15-month-old deli ham for dinner pretty regularly. Recently, a family member was alarmed that we were feeding him any kind of deli meat because it is "bad for them". We typically get Prima Della Black Forrest Ham or Oven Roasted Chicken.

As usual, the collective wisdom of Google muddies the water, so I'm wondering if deli meats are a big no-no?

If so, can somebody point us to a realistic meal plan?

Answer: 
Your family member may be confusing the advice to avoid all deli meat for pregnant mothers.

Deli meats and other precooked meats put pregnant women at a [high risk for listeriosis](http://www.babycenter.com/406_is-it-safe-to-eat-deli-meats-when-im-pregnant_1246923.bc) and are advised to avoid them unless cooked to steaming hot.

Once a child is transitioned to solid foods, the only main concerns are common allergens (seafood, tree nuts, etc.), and, of course, healthy food habits. There's nothing wrong with deli meats beyond the normal high-sodium/high-fat factors that impact any adult's consumption.
Deli meats can be high in nitrates. Too much nitrates is bad for babies. But this is a balance and moderation issue, its not like handing a baby a candy bar for lunch.