Allergy prevention in infants
Research over the last decade has changed the advice: delaying allergenic foods does not protect babies, and introducing them early, in a safe form, may lower the risk of food allergy.
Introduce allergens, don't avoid them
Once your baby has started solid food, usually around 4-6 months, include common allergens such as egg, fish, wheat, dairy products and peanut in their diet. Offer them in an age-appropriate form: well-cooked egg, smooth peanut butter thinned with water or mixed into porridge, never whole nuts.
Introduce one new allergen at a time, early in the day, so that you can watch for reactions. Once tolerated, keep offering it regularly.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding has many benefits, but it cannot be relied on as a way to prevent allergy on its own. Mothers do not need to avoid allergenic foods during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor has advised it for a specific reason.
Babies with higher risk
Babies with severe eczema or an existing food allergy are at higher risk. Talk to your doctor or health nurse before introducing peanut or egg to these babies. Do not try to treat suspected allergy by yourself.
Recognising a reaction
Mild reactions include a rash around the mouth, hives or vomiting. Difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips or face, or sudden pallor and drowsiness is an emergency: call your local emergency number straight away.
Noting down what and when your baby ate makes it easier to talk to a doctor about any reaction.