This may not be ground breaking news to some of you. Last week, I was fortunate to attend the Dietitians of Canada webinar by Elissa Abrams, MD, FRCPC re: understanding the updated guidance on early introduction of allergenic foods.
Looking at the “LEAP’ forward study of 640 infants at high risk of peanut allergy, results showed early introduction of peanuts results in 80% reduction of peanut allergies at 5 years of age. This early oral introduction appears to be true of most common allergens, milk protein, egg and peanuts and potentially wheat.
Its suggested that you introduce these solid foods one at time, in small amounts a few times per week around 6 months of age. Introduce only small amounts, ie.’ 2 tsp smooth peanut butter in cereal. Don’t place the food on the skin first as this increases the risk, it is the oral introduction that is preventative.
Reactions may include hives, swelling, abdominal signs, vomiting diarrhea or fainting. inconsolable crying in which case, consult your physician, Large observational studies and randomized controlled trials have found early introduction of allergenic foods such as peanut to be safe, with low rates of reactions (approximately 2%) that are mild, and exclusively skin reactions
Even during a pandemic, the CPS continues to recommend (Canadian Pediatric Society) that if infants are at high risk of food allergy (due to eczema, other food allergy, or an immediate family history of allergies), allergenic solids should be introduced early—around 6 months, but not before 4 months of age.
Along with this data, did you know that the demand for peanut butter has increased by up to 41% over the past 3 months, possibly a trend towards plant based diet and with the closure of schools, children at home aren’t restricting their peanut consumption.

This post was inspired by my dinner tonight, a budda bowl with peanut sauce, totally yummy!