Did you know that you can reduce your baby’s risk of a food allergy by introducing peanut and egg early? In the past, parents were advised to wait until after the first year to give their children peanuts and nuts. It is now known that it is better to give children small amounts of peanut butter or nut paste at a young age, as this reduces the risk of allergy. Therefore, it is recommended to start giving peanut and egg before 8 months of age.
When can you start?
From 4 months, you can let your baby try the first small bites of vegetables and fruit. Once your baby is used to this, you can add a little peanut butter or egg.
Especially important with eczema or allergies
Does your child have severe eczema or a higher risk of allergy? Then it is even more important to give peanut and egg before 6 months. The earlier you start, the lower the chance your baby will develop an allergy. Always consult your doctor or dietitian on the best way to do this.
How to give peanut and egg
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Peanut: Choose smooth 100% peanut butter (no chunks, added sugar, or salt).
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Egg: Give well-cooked scrambled eggs or a hard-boiled egg.
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Mix peanut butter or egg into a vegetable or fruit puree. You can smooth it with a hand blender if needed.
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Once your baby can eat bread, you can also give peanut butter or egg as a spread.
Step-by-step introduction
|
|
Peanut Butter |
Egg |
|
Day 1 |
½ teaspoon |
1 teaspoon |
|
Day 2 |
1 teaspoon |
1 tablespoon |
|
Day 3 |
3 teaspoons |
2 tablespoons |
|
Then weekly* |
3 teaspoons |
Half an egg |
*Continue offering this weekly at least until your baby’s first birthday.
Safe nuts for young children
It is safer to give young children nut paste or finely ground nuts. Whole nuts or peanuts are dangerous for children under 4 years old because their teeth and chewing muscles are not fully developed, and they can easily choke. This risk also exists for older children. Always let children eat nuts calmly at the table and supervise them. If in doubt about safety, choose ground nuts or nut paste.
