The 41-year-old celebrity chef marked his wife’s 42nd birthday by posting a photo of Jools holding their three-month-old son, River Rocket, in a front-facing baby carrier.
“Happy birthday Mrs Oliver,” he penned alongside the snap, adding, “Love you and of course the dude that is baby River.”
The sweet birthday tribute took a negative turn when commentators lashed out over the use of the baby-holding device – with many citing it “dangerous” for the child.
One mum wrote, “Happy birthday. But please never use that carrier again,” explaining, “It’s not ergonomic for the child and can cause hip dysplasia. Use a carrier that support from knee to knee.”
Another lashed out, saying, “Poor baby looks so uncomfortable! With all the money you have, you’d think you’d listen to the advice, not put your baby in danger and buy an ergonomic carrier!”
While another stressed the importance of researching the proper way to hold a child.
In their comment, they shared, “Please do your research or ask your physio; narrow-based carriers are not only dangerous but also uncomfortable for baby.”
“River doesn’t look particularly cosy in that pic, they should never front face. Also hip dysplasia can be undiagnosed in 15% of babies.”
Of course, some fans voiced their support for the celebrity couple, who are already parents to their four older kids, Daisy Boo Pamela, Poppy Honey Rosie, Petal Blossom Rainbow and Buddy Bear Maurice.
“Happy birthday and to everyone else I am sure after all the kids they’ve had they know what they’re doing,” one mused.
While one user passionately defended the mum-of-five, saying, “For all the negative people if you look properly baby River is in a harness which is attached to his very capable mummy get a life and stop hating!! Happy birthday Jools! You look amazing!! Xx”
Australia currently does not have a safety standard for baby carriers, however, the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI), a not-for-profit effort to improve the health and quality of life of those afflicted with hip dysplasia, state that they “do not endorse nor advise against any particular baby carrier.”
When it comes to learning what works with your baby, it’s always best to check with your medical health professional.
The Olivers have turned to front-facing baby carriers with their elder kids, with Jools holding baby Petal and Jamie carrying Buddy, in 2011.
