Starting solid foods is an exciting milestone, and it’s normal to feel a bit unsure, especially when it comes to introducing foods that can cause allergies. The good news is that introducing common allergy causing foods can be simple, safe, and part of everyday family meals.
When should I introduce allergens?
The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) recommends introducing common food allergens around 6 months of age, when your baby is developmentally ready for solids, and alongside other solid foods.
Research shows that introducing allergens early (at around 6 months of age) may reduce the risk of your child developing food allergies later on.
What are common allergy causing foods?
Common allergens include:
- Nut pastes (e.g. peanut butter, almond paste/meal, tahini)
- Sesame (seeds or paste such as tahini)
- Cooked egg
- Dairy (small amounts of cows milk in cooking, cheese and yoghurt)
- Wheat (e.g. pasta, bread, couscous)
- Soy (e.g. tofu and small amount of soy milk in cooking)
- Fish (without bones) and shellfish
These foods don’t need to be introduced all at once. Start slowly, one at a time, in small amounts with the aim of introducing all these foods before 12 months of age, even if your family has a history of allergies.
What about allergen starter packs?
You may have seen allergen starter packs advertised. These are pre-packaged powders containing small amounts of common allergens and are marketed as a way to “simplify” allergen introduction.
However, for most families, these products are not needed. Here’s why:
1. They make things more complicated than necessary
Introducing allergens doesn’t need to be medical or intimidating. Starter packs often come with schedules and rules that can feel overwhelming. In reality, allergens can be introduced easily at home using everyday foods.
2. They can be expensive
Allergen starter packs often cost $50-$75. Introducing allergens using foods you already buy such as smooth peanut butter, eggs, yoghurt, fish, or tofu is far more affordable.
3. Whole foods offer more nutrition
When babies eat whole foods, they benefit from a wider range of nutrients than they would from processed powders.
4. Babies learn best through real food
Eating a variety of foods helps babies learn about different textures, tastes, and colours. Sharing meals with the family also supports healthy eating habits. These learning opportunities are limited when allergens are offered only as powders.
5. Some advice goes against feeding guidelines
Some starter packs suggest adding allergen powders to a baby’s bottle, which goes against recommended bottle-feeding practices.
The simple approach works best
You can safely introduce allergens by:
- Offering small amounts of allergen foods
- Using smooth textures appropriate for your baby’s age
- Introducing allergens one at a time and early in the day
- Watching for any signs of an allergic reaction
- Continuing to offer tolerated foods regularly (at least once a week and gradually increase the amount)If your baby shows signs of a food allergy, stop feeding the food immediately. For mild to moderate reactions (e.g. hives, vomiting), contact your doctor. For severe reactions (e.g. breathing difficulty, tongue swelling), call emergency services (000) immediately.
There’s no need for special products; regular whole foods work just as well.
Key message for parents
Introducing common allergens early (around 6 months), gradually, and as part of normal family foods is one of the best ways to help reduce the risk of food allergies. Allergen starter packs add extra cost and complexity, without providing additional benefits for most babies.
For more practical, evidence-based information on starting solids and reducing allergy risk, download the My Baby Now app.
Reference
Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA). (2020). ASCIA Guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention.
https://www.allergy.org.au/hp/papers/infant-feeding-and-allergy-prevention