How & When to Introduce Peanut-containing Foods to Your Baby: A Simple Guide for Parents

Introducing peanuts to your baby early and consistently can significantly reduce the risk of developing a peanut allergy later in life. The groundbreaking LEAP Study led by our co-founder Dr. Gideon Lack, found  that early introduction of peanut-containing foods, starting as early as 4 to 6 months of age, can decrease the likelihood of peanut allergy by up to 86%.* This discovery changed feeding guidelines globally. We’re breaking down the NIAID guidelines for the prevention of peanut allergy to make it simple for you! 

NIAID: When to Start Introducing Peanuts

Most babies can begin trying peanut-containing foods around 6 months of age, once they've started other solid foods.

High-Risk Infants:

If your infant has severe eczema, egg allergy, or both, talk to your doctor before giving any peanut-containing foods to your baby. Your doctor may recommend allergy testing or introducing peanut foods under medical supervision. Once cleared, high-risk infants should start peanut foods around 4-6 months of age and consume them regularly to help prevent peanut allergy.

Moderate-Risk Infants:

If your infant has mild to moderate eczema, introduce peanut-containing foods around 6 months of age to reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy. Depending on your preference, you can introduce peanut foods at home or in your doctor’s office under supervision.

Low-Risk Infants: 

For infants who have no eczema or any food allergy, you can freely introduce peanut-containing foods into your child’s diet. This can be done at home in an age-appropriate manner together with other solid foods. 

Note that more recent Consensus Guidance from the leading allergy organizations in the United States and Canada recommends universal allergen introduction at home without screening, regardless of risk factors, so there is some debate about the right approach. As with any feeding or medical questions, it’s always best to discuss with your pediatrician so they can make a recommendation tailored to your child’s specific case. 

Maintaining Regular Peanut Consumption

After successfully introducing peanuts, it's crucial to keep them in your baby's diet regularly. Babies in the groundbreaking LEAP Study regularly consumed peanut-containing foods until age 5 to achieve the dramatic, long-term protection against developing peanut allergy later in life. Consistent exposure through age 5 helps maintain tolerance and reduces the risk of developing an allergy. Incorporate peanut-containing foods into meals and snacks several times a week.

Important Safety Tips

• Consult Your Pediatrician: Especially if your baby has severe eczema, egg allergy, or a family history of food allergies.

• Start Small: Begin with a tiny amount of peanut-containing food and observe for any reactions.

• Peanuts and Peanut Butter are a Choking Hazard: Instead use diluted peanut butter (mixed with water, formula or breast milk) or meltable peanut puffs like Mission MightyMe Nutty Puffs. 

• Know the Signs of an Allergic Reaction: Symptoms can include hives, vomiting, or difficulty breathing. Stop feeding the food and seek immediate medical attention if severe reactions occur.

By following these guidelines and introducing peanuts early, you can help set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating habits and reduce the risk of peanut allergies.*

For more information and resources on early allergen introduction, refer to our Early Allergen Guide.

Ready to introduce peanut into your little one’s diet? Start with Peanut Nutty Puffs here.