Giving babies peanut early helps prevent peanut allergy

What the research found

A 2015 randomised trial of 640 high-risk infants (severe eczema, egg allergy, or both) compared eating peanut with avoiding it. Among infants with a negative skin-prick test, 13.7% of the avoidance group had peanut allergy at 60 months, versus 1.9% of the group who ate peanut. A 2024 follow-up at age 144 months found 15.4% versus 4.4%, so the benefit lasted.

A 2016 trial in 1303 breast-fed infants from the general population introduced six allergenic foods from 3 months. The overall result was not significant (7.1% vs 5.6% had food allergy). Among families who stuck to the plan, peanut allergy was 0% versus 2.5%. A 2020 systematic review found that regular peanut from 4 to 11 months in higher-risk infants probably reduces peanut allergy.

Australian guidance says peanut should be included soon after a baby is ready for solids, in a safe form such as smooth peanut butter, finely ground peanut or peanut flour. It should then be eaten at least once a week. A 2026 review estimated early introduction cuts peanut allergy by about 80%.

What it doesn’t mean

• Some babies still develop peanut allergy even when peanut is introduced early. If your baby has signs of an allergic reaction, see a doctor or specialist before trying the food again.
• Do not give whole nuts or pieces to babies. Use smooth peanut butter or paste, powder or finely ground peanut. Wait until your baby is ready for solids, usually around 6 months and not before 4 months.
• Most of the strongest trial evidence is in babies at high risk, such as those with severe eczema or egg allergy. Evidence in low-risk babies is less certain, though guidance still recommends early introduction for all babies. Talk to your GP or child health nurse if your baby has severe eczema or a known food allergy.