Introducing solid foods to your baby is a big milestone filled with excitement—and sometimes a bit of anxiety. One common concern for parents is the potential for food allergies in infants. Fortunately, with the right approach, you can minimize risks and respond effectively if a reaction occurs.
This guide covers everything you need to know about handling food allergies in babies, from recognizing symptoms to safely introducing allergens and working with your pediatrician.
What Are Food Allergies?
A food allergy happens when your baby’s immune system overreacts to a protein in a specific food. This can trigger symptoms that range from mild to severe. Common food allergens in infants include:
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Cow’s milk
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Eggs
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Peanuts
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Tree nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
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Soy
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Wheat
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Fish and shellfish
Signs of Food Allergies in Infants
Food allergy reactions usually occur within minutes to a few hours after eating. Watch for the following symptoms:
Mild to moderate symptoms:
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Rash or hives
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Itchy skin
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Swelling of the lips, face, or eyes
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Vomiting or diarrhea
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Runny nose or sneezing
Severe symptoms (anaphylaxis):
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Difficulty breathing
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Wheezing
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Swelling of the throat
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Pale or bluish skin
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Loss of consciousness
⚠️ If your baby shows signs of anaphylaxis, call emergency services immediately.
When to Introduce Allergenic Foods
Recent guidelines recommend introducing common allergens early, usually around 6 months of age, after your baby starts solids and shows developmental readiness. Delaying introduction may increase the risk of developing food allergies later.
Here are some tips:
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Introduce one allergenic food at a time
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Wait 3–5 days before trying another
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Start with a small amount and watch for reactions
Examples:
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Peanut butter (thinned with water or mixed with puree)
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Scrambled eggs
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Wheat cereal
Tips for Safely Introducing Allergens
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Choose a calm time: Offer new foods when your baby is healthy and you can monitor them for a few hours afterward.
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Start small: A tiny amount is enough to observe any reaction.
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Watch closely: Keep an eye on your baby for any allergic response.
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Don’t mix allergens: Try foods one at a time so you can identify the source if a reaction occurs.
What to Do If Your Baby Has an Allergic Reaction
If you notice symptoms of a food allergy:
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Stop feeding the suspected food immediately
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Contact your pediatrician for guidance, especially if it’s your baby’s first reaction
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Mild symptoms may be treated at home with pediatrician-approved antihistamines
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Severe symptoms require immediate emergency care
Your doctor may refer you to an allergist for further testing or prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector for future reactions.
Diagnosing Food Allergies in Infants
If food allergies are suspected, an allergist may perform:
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Skin prick tests
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Blood tests (IgE testing)
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Oral food challenges (under medical supervision)
These tests help confirm allergies and guide safe feeding plans.
Managing Food Allergies Day-to-Day
If your baby has confirmed food allergies:
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Read labels carefully on all baby foods and snacks
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Avoid cross-contact (clean utensils, surfaces, and hands when preparing meals)
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Communicate with caregivers (e.g., daycare, babysitters) about your child’s allergy
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Always carry emergency medications if prescribed
You’ll also want to work with your pediatrician or a dietitian to ensure your baby gets all essential nutrients while avoiding allergens.
Common Myths About Baby Food Allergies
❌ Myth: Avoiding allergens early prevents food allergies
✅ Fact: Early introduction of allergens can reduce the risk of developing allergies.
❌ Myth: Only family history matters
✅ Fact: Babies without a family history can still develop food allergies.
❌ Myth: Breastfed babies can’t have allergies
✅ Fact: While breastfeeding may lower the risk, it doesn’t eliminate it completely.
Conclusion
Handling food allergies in infants can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and support, you can safely guide your baby through the weaning process. Early introduction, careful observation, and prompt response are key to preventing serious reactions and helping your child build a healthy relationship with food.
If you suspect an allergy, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. Every baby is different, and your provider can help you tailor an approach that supports both safety and nutrition.
