When should I introduce peanut to my baby, and how can I reduce risks?
Many babies can have peanut in a safe texture with complementary foods around six months. Severe eczema or egg allergy may warrant early assessment and a plan for introduction at four to six months. Do not introduce it before four months or offer whole peanuts.
Details
Who needs advice before trying it?
With severe eczema or egg allergy, consult the clinician before peanut introduction; testing or supervised feeding may be advised. A previous reaction to peanut requires a different plan. Do not repeat exposure at home to test an established or suspected allergy.
Readiness and texture matter
The baby should be developmentally ready for solids and have tolerated other foods. Smooth peanut butter can be thinned into a texture the baby can swallow. Avoid whole nuts, coarse pieces and thick sticky spoonfuls. Feed while seated and supervised.
After introduction
Introduce one potential allergen at a time to help identify a reaction. If tolerated, include it regularly in an age-appropriate diet. Stop and seek advice if symptoms occur. Breathing difficulty, throat swelling or sudden marked floppiness needs immediate emergency help.
Related reading: How is egg allergy recognised, and can children outgrow it?.