It might come as a surprise that health experts recommend introducing allergens like eggs, nuts and shellfish for most infants before the age of 12 months. This is because research from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy found that this helps to reduce the chance of developing food allergies later in life.
However, it’s still important to understand how to safely introduce them to your baby. Here’s how.
What is an allergy food?
Food allergens are components of food that may be harmless to most people but for others, may trigger an immune response and allergic reaction. Around 4-8% of children are affected by a food allergy and this has increased over the years.
Note: if your child currently has a known allergy, it’s important to discuss this with a healthcare professional for personalised advice. This article contains general information and guidelines for the introduction of solids.
What are common food allergens?
Common allergens include eggs, nuts, peanuts, wheat, cow’s milk, fish, shellfish, soy.
When should you start introducing allergens?
Allergens can be introduced from the age of 6 months when baby commences on solid or semi-solid foods. Look for the signs that indicate when the baby may be ready to start on solids.
The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy recommends that common allergen foods are introduced before the age of 12 months, in a form that is appropriate for them to swallow, for example mashed or pureed foods.
Which allergy foods should you start with?
- It’s best to start with a food that can be easily prepared and that you and baby are comfortable with. For example: a well cooked egg that can be mashed or smooth peanut butter.
- Introduce only one potential allergen food at a time then wait a few days before introducing the next. This means that the problem food can be easily identified if there is an allergic reaction.
- Repeat the process of introducing each allergen as reactions may occur at a second or third exposure.
- Some parents may wish to include common allergy foods during meals soon after waking so the baby can be observed during the day.
How should you introduce allergy foods?
Some parents may wish to follow these steps, as outlined by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology:
- Rub the food inside the baby’s lips as a starting point.
- Mix a small amount (¼ teaspoon) of the allergen food into the baby's usual food. For example: ¼ teaspoon of peanut butter mixed into veggie puree.
- If there is no reaction, gradually increase the amount, for example: ½ teaspoon of peanut butter.
- Never smear or rub food on the baby’s skin as this will not help to identify possible food allergies and may increase the risk of the baby developing an allergy to that food.
What to do if they have an allergic reaction?
Signs that your baby may be having an allergic reaction include swelling of the lips, eyes or face, hives or welts, vomiting, or any change in behaviour. If your baby is experiencing any of these symptoms soon after giving a new food, seek medical advice immediately.
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Article developed with Nutrition Australia.
Reviewed by Healthylife health experts July 2024.
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