A first taste can raise questions about allergy. Separate introducing a food from recognising a reaction, and make room for individual advice.
The short answer
Around 6 months, introduce allergy-triggering foods one at a time in a suitable form. Keep tolerated foods in the usual diet.
What to do in everyday care
Make it possible to identify the new ingredient. Observe for a reaction and note the food and symptoms; do not use a quiz to confirm an allergy.
Age and individual context
The NHS advises discussing introduction first when the baby has eczema or an allergy, or there is a relevant family history. This is not a home challenge protocol.
A common misunderstanding
Delaying every allergen is not a general prevention strategy. Equally, a suspected reaction is not a reason to repeatedly test the food at home.
When to get help
Breathing problems or swelling of the tongue or throat require emergency help. Other suspected reactions need medical advice; avoid removing major food groups without support.
A moment to think through
Original reflection: a new ingredient is served at childcare. How would you share what has already been introduced and any professional instructions?
Original Launfi reflection · not a clinical caseIntroduce allergens one at a time
Around six months, introduce foods that can cause allergy individually so a reaction is easier to identify. Use a texture suitable for your baby.
Introducing allergens separately helps you notice which food may be responsible.
Keep tolerated foods in usual meals
After a food is introduced and tolerated, include it in the usual diet. A successful taste is the beginning of ongoing meals.
Tolerated allergens should remain part of the usual diet.
Recognise an emergency reaction
Breathing problems or a swollen tongue or throat after eating can signal anaphylaxis. Seek emergency help immediately.
Anaphylaxis needs immediate treatment, even after a small amount of food.
Read it. Try it. Come back to why.
Original reflection: before a first taste, identify the food, its texture, and who you would contact with a concern. Use the three scenarios to rehearse the decisions.
Practise all 3 questions →