Food Allergies in Children: What Parents Need to Know

Australia has one of the highest rates of childhood food allergies in the world.

One in 10 Australian babies develops a food allergy in their first year, though this drops to around 6 in a 100 by age 10. The good news? Most children outgrow their allergies – 9 out of 10 kids with egg allergies will no longer be allergic by age six.

We don't fully understand why food allergies are becoming more common, or why Australia seems particularly affected. 

But here's what we do know: early introduction of allergens can make a real difference.

Starting Solid Foods the Right Way

The key to allergy prevention is simple: introduce common allergens from six months of age, making sure major allergens – especially egg and peanuts – are part of your child's regular diet by their first birthday.

The major allergens include: egg, peanut, cow's milk, tree nuts, soy, sesame, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

Introduce one allergen at a time, and once introduced, keep it in your child's diet at least twice a week. Trying a food, then avoiding it for long periods may increase allergy risk.

How to Introduce Allergens Safely

Offer allergens in age-appropriate forms like hard-boiled egg or smooth nut butter. You can mix a quarter teaspoon into foods your child already enjoys, like pureed vegetables.

Start by rubbing a small amount inside your child's lips. If there's no reaction within a few minutes, offer a small taste.

It's best to try new foods during the daytime when you can monitor closely.

Need More Information?

For detailed guidance including a fantastic factsheet on introducing solid foods for allergy prevention, visit the Australian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy at www.allergy.org.au.

If you have questions or concerns, book an appointment with your GP! We're here to support you every step of the way. 

Thanks to Bulli Medical Practice for providing this partner content.