#110 - Early Introduction of Allergenic Foods: Preventing Food Allergies Before They Start

Did you know you could potentially reduce your baby’s risk of developing food allergies by up to 80%?

That’s the power of early allergen introduction. Feeding a baby the top 9 allergens consistently starting between 4 to 6 months can make a life-changing difference.

We’re launching a brand-new series about food allergies at various stages of life. Whether you’re just starting solids, navigating a new diagnosis, or in a new stage of life, this series is here to support you with evidence-based tips and real talk. In this first episode, Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta explore how to potentially prevent food allergies before they even develop.

Why do you want to know more about introducing allergens to baby?

For years, parents were told to wait until toddlers were older before introducing allergenic foods. But groundbreaking research, including the LEAP, LEAP-On, and PETIT studies, turned that advice on its head.

We no longer wait to feed babies food allergens. Instead, early (around 4–6 months) and sustained exposure to top allergens like peanut and egg is recommended for all babies. In this episode, Dr. G and Kortney explain the studies, walk you through how to do it safely, and bust common myths that leave parents confused or anxious.

What we cover in our episode about early allergen introduction

• Why guidelines changed: Learn how the LEAP & PETIT studies reshaped allergy prevention.
• How to introduce the top 9 allergenic foods safely, including forms that are appropriate for infants.
• What “sustained exposure” means and how often to serve allergens after that first taste. How eczema increases allergy risk and what transcutaneous sensitization means.
• What allergic signs to watch for: mild hives vs. serious allergic reactions and when to call the doctor.

More resources about food allergy prevention

• USDA Updates Dietary Guidelines to Include Introduction of Food Allergens
• Delaware Adopts Law Covering Early Introduction of Food Allergens
• What is a food allergy?
• American Academy of Pediatrics Early Feeding Guidelines
• AAAAI / ACAAI handouts on introducing peanut & egg
• FARE: How to Use Peanut Puffs Safely
• Solid Starts: Peanut Butter Guide (Creative Ways to Serve)
• PreventAllergies.org Recipe Library
• Our infant anaphylaxis episode (with Dr. Mike)

Made in partnership with the Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Genentech and Aquestive for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.