Introduce common allergens early and deliberately

Introduce peanut, egg, dairy, wheat, soy, fish, and tree nuts early in the weaning process, typically between 6 and 12 months. Current AAP and AAAAI guidelines recommend early introduction of allergenic foods rather than delaying them, as landmark research (the LEAP study for peanut, EAT study for multiple allergens) showed that early exposure reduces the risk of developing food allergies.

How to Introduce Allergens Safely

1. Start when baby is already tolerating a few first foods (after the first 1-2 weeks of solids).
2. Offer one new allergen at a time in a small amount: thin peanut butter mixed into puree, a small piece of well-cooked scrambled egg, or plain whole-milk yogurt.
3. Give the allergen early in the day so you can monitor for reactions during waking hours.
4. Watch for 2-4 hours for signs of allergic reaction: hives, swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing.
5. If tolerated, continue offering regularly (2-3 times per week) to maintain tolerance.

Tips

• Never give whole peanuts or tree nuts to infants; use smooth peanut butter thinned with breast milk, formula, or water
• Babies with severe eczema or existing egg allergy are at higher risk for peanut allergy; consult your pediatrician before introducing peanut
• Delaying allergen introduction beyond 12 months is no longer recommended and may increase allergy risk
• Keep an infant antihistamine on hand after discussing appropriate dosing with your pediatrician