Is 4 1/2 month baby ready to start solid food?

I don't think there is a right or wrong time to start babies on solid foods. I think it depends on the baby. If milk isn't enough and she wants other things than give it to her. Make sure to only introduce one new things every few days though just in case there is an allergic reaction. This way you know which food caused it instead of guessing and retesting everything. :)

Yes starting to feed at that age is okay after 4 months.I have a small srticle written on this topic of ideal age to feed the baby. Check: http://www.helium.com/tm/72635/medical-councils-organisation-exclusively

6 months is only a guide and mainly only put there to cover the manufacturer incase some parent decides to give it to a child too young and then decides to sue them. You'll find that every few years they'll readvise what the recommended age is. My son [now 4 years] was right into foods at 4 months of age and would happily try any food but my current baby has just gone 6 months and really isn't interested at all. Every child is different. I believe the ones that are for 1 year and up you should wait until they are at least 9 months for though. I can't quite remember the reasoning for it but there is something medically. While your child likes the food - just keep going with it. If you can get variety of foods into them while young they get used to it and won't screw their noses up at it when they are a bit older.

It depends on your baby I have a 3 month old and we are feeding her solid foods. When your baby can keep its head up and can take the spoon then it is ok to feed it solid foods(at least that is what gerber says).