What is the evidence-based approach to introducing allergenic foods to prevent food allergies in infancy?

• A. Early introduction around 4–6 months as tolerated, especially for high-risk infants after medical advice.
• B. Delaying allergenic foods until after 12 months.
• C. Avoiding allergenic foods altogether for the first two years.
• D. Introduce one allergen per year.

Answer: (A)

Introducing allergenic foods during infancy, specifically around when you start complementary feeding at 4–6 months, is supported by current evidence as a way to reduce the risk of developing food allergies. This approach contrasts with older advice that recommended delaying these foods. For high-risk infants—such as those with severe eczema or a strong family history—it's prudent to discuss introduction with a clinician first; foods can be started in small, age-appropriate forms and given in gradually increasing amounts as long as the infant tolerates them. For peanut, the evidence is especially strong: early introduction has been shown to lower the chance of peanut allergy, and guidelines now favor offering peanut-containing foods within that 4–6 month window after medical advice if needed.

Practical points help make the concept clear. Start with readiness for solids and give allergenic foods in forms that are easy to swallow and unlikely to cause choking (for example, smooth peanut-containing products thinned with breast milk or water, well-cooked and mashed eggs, or other prepared foods appropriate for infants). Continue regular feeding alongside other foods and breastfeeding or formula. The goal is not to delay forever or to avoid these foods entirely; postponing beyond 12 months has not been shown to prevent allergies and may miss the opportunity for early tolerance. Introducing one allergen per year is not the recommended approach; multiple common allergens can be introduced within this window as part of typical solid-food progression. If there are signs of a reaction or a concerning history, seek medical guidance promptly.