When it comes to peanut allergy prevention, the process of reducing the risk of developing a life-threatening reaction to peanuts through early exposure and safe practices. Also known as early peanut introduction, it’s no longer about keeping peanuts away from babies—it’s about safely bringing them in. Just ten years ago, doctors told parents to delay peanuts until age three. Now, we know that delay might have made allergies worse.
The landmark LEAP study showed that babies at high risk for peanut allergy—those with eczema or egg allergy—had an 81% lower chance of developing the allergy if they ate peanut-containing foods regularly between 4 and 11 months old. That’s not a small shift. It’s a full rewrite of guidelines. This isn’t just for high-risk kids either. Major health groups now recommend introducing peanut products to all infants around 6 months, as long as they’re developmentally ready and have no signs of a reaction. You don’t need to wait. You don’t need to bake it in. Just mix a little peanut butter into pureed fruit or use a peanut puff designed for babies.
But here’s what most parents miss: peanut allergy in children, a condition where the immune system overreacts to peanut proteins, causing symptoms from hives to breathing trouble. Also known as food allergy in kids, it’s not just about what you feed them—it’s about how you feed them. Whole peanuts? Choking hazard. Peanut butter straight from the spoon? Too thick. Safe forms include thinned peanut butter, peanut powder mixed into food, or specially made snacks like Bamba. And if your child has severe eczema or another food allergy? Talk to your pediatrician first. They might suggest an allergy test before you start. This isn’t a one-time thing. You need to keep feeding peanut products regularly—about 2 to 3 times a week—for months, even years. Stopping after a few weeks won’t work. Consistency matters more than the amount.
And while early peanut introduction, the practice of feeding peanut-containing foods to infants in the first year of life to build tolerance. Also known as allergy prevention strategy, it’s the most proven method we have, it’s not the only tool. You also need to watch for cross-contamination. A spoon used for peanut butter then dipped into another food? That’s enough to trigger a reaction in a sensitive child. Keep utensils, bowls, and surfaces clean. Teach older siblings not to share food. Read labels—peanut can hide in sauces, cereals, and even some candies labeled "made in a facility with peanuts."
Parents often ask: "What if my baby spits it out?" Or "What if they gag?" Gagging is normal. Choking is not. Watch closely. Start with a tiny amount—about 2 teaspoons of thinned peanut butter. Wait 10 minutes. Then wait another 10. If no reaction, keep going. Don’t rush. But don’t stop either. This is about building tolerance, not testing limits.
The science is clear: waiting doesn’t protect kids. It increases risk. The right approach—early, regular, and safe—can stop peanut allergies before they start. You’re not just feeding your child peanut butter. You’re giving them a shield. Below, you’ll find real stories, step-by-step guides, and expert-backed tips on how to do this right—without fear, without guesswork, and without waiting too long.
Learn how early peanut introduction can reduce allergy risk by up to 98%. Discover the latest guidelines, safe methods, and what to avoid for babies at all risk levels.