Introducing Allergens to Baby (ASCIA Guide) | Parenting Hub
ASCIA recommends introducing common allergenic foods by 12 months. Here's how to do it safely and what to watch for.
Delaying allergens used to be standard advice — current Australian (ASCIA) guidance is the opposite. Introducing them between 6 and 12 months may reduce allergy risk.
Which foods to include
The common 9 allergens in Australia.
- Egg (well-cooked first)
- Peanut (smooth peanut butter, never whole nuts)
- Dairy (yoghurt, cheese — not cow's milk as a drink yet)
- Wheat (bread, pasta)
- Tree nuts (smooth nut butters)
- Soy
- Sesame (tahini)
- Fish and shellfish
How to introduce
- Start at home, in the morning, when you can watch baby for 2 hours
- Offer a small amount on the tip of a spoon, watch 10 minutes, then more
- Introduce one new allergen per day
- Once tolerated, keep giving it 1–2 times per week to maintain tolerance
- Don't delay past 12 months — that may increase risk
If there is a family history of allergy or severe eczema
These babies are higher risk. ASCIA still recommends introduction by 12 months — but talk to your GP first. They may suggest specialist review or supervised introduction.
Mild vs severe reactions
Mild: hives around the mouth, mild redness, mild vomiting — see GP for review. Severe (anaphylaxis): swelling of tongue/throat, breathing change, persistent vomiting, floppy/pale — call 000 immediately.
When to seek help
- Swelling of tongue, lips or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheeze
- Persistent vomiting
- Pale, floppy, drowsy
- Widespread hives — call 000 for any of these
Common questions
What about whole nuts?
Never give whole nuts under age 3 — they're a choking hazard. Smooth nut butter or finely ground nuts only.
Can I introduce peanut if there's a family history?
Yes, ASCIA still recommends introduction. Talk to your GP first if there's severe eczema or a sibling with peanut allergy — they may suggest specialist review.