food allergies in babies
based on ASCIA (Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy) guidelines. this is general information — talk to your GP if your baby is at higher risk of allergies.
about 10% of Australian babies will have a food allergy. the good news: research shows that introducing allergens early (around 6 months) actually reducesthe risk of developing allergies. delaying allergens doesn't protect your baby — it may increase the risk.
higher risk babies: if your baby has severe eczema or an existing food allergy, talk to your GP or allergist before introducing new allergens. they may recommend supervised introduction.
how to introduce allergens safely
•introduce one new allergen at a time
•wait 2–3 days before introducing the next
•try new allergens at home in the morning (not at daycare)
•start with a small amount — 1/4 teaspoon
•watch for reactions for at least 2 hours
•once introduced with no reaction, keep offering regularly (2–3 times per week)
common allergens
peanut
how: smooth peanut butter — mix a small amount (1/4 teaspoon) into puree, porridge, or spread thinly on toast. never give whole peanuts.
tip: try at home in the morning so you can monitor for a few hours.
egg
how: well-cooked egg — scrambled, hard-boiled, or in an omelette. start with a small amount. avoid runny or raw egg until 12 months.
tip: well-cooked egg is less allergenic than lightly cooked.
cow's milk (dairy)
how: yoghurt, cheese, or milk in cooking from 6 months. cow's milk as a main drink from 12 months only.
tip: full-fat dairy products are best for babies.
wheat
how: baby cereal, bread, pasta, or Weetbix from 6 months.
tip: start with small amounts mixed into familiar foods.
tree nuts
how: smooth nut butters (almond, cashew) — never whole nuts. mix into food or spread thinly on toast.
tip: introduce one type at a time.
fish & shellfish
how: cooked, deboned fish (salmon, white fish). avoid high-mercury fish (flake/shark, swordfish, marlin).
tip: soft cooked fish flakes or mixed into mash.
soy
how: tofu, soy yoghurt, or edamame (mashed for young babies).
tip: cooked soft tofu is a great finger food for BLW.
sesame
how: tahini mixed into puree or hummus. avoid whole sesame seeds (choking risk).
tip: tahini is a great source of iron and healthy fats.
signs of an allergic reaction
mild to moderate
- •hives or welts on the skin
- •swelling of face, lips, or eyes
- •tingling mouth or throat
- •stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- •eczema flare-up
severe (anaphylaxis) — call 000
- •difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- •swelling of the tongue
- •wheeze or persistent cough
- •pale and floppy (in babies)
- •collapse or loss of consciousness
if you suspect anaphylaxis: lay baby flat, call 000, give adrenaline (EpiPen) if available.
related guides
this guide is based on ASCIA guidelines and is for informational purposes only. if your baby has a known allergy, severe eczema, or a family history of allergies, consult your GP or allergist before introducing allergens.