When and How to Introduce Peanut, Egg and Other Allergens Safely When Your Baby Has Cow’s Milk Allergy
Introducing solids can feel exciting, but when your baby has a cow’s milk allergy it can also feel confusing and a little scary. Many parents ask me “How do I introduce peanut and egg if my baby already has an allergy?”. It can be a really confusing time!
Early introduction of peanut, egg and other common allergens is now recommended for most babies, including those with cow’s milk allergy, because it may help reduce the chance of developing more food allergies.
This guide will help you understand when and how to introduce these foods safely, and when to get support from a paediatric allergy dietitian.
Why introduce allergens early?
Research shows that introducing peanut and cooked egg in the first year of life (ideally soon within the commencement of solids) can help protect against developing allergies to these foods, especially with children that have eczema.
I know it can feel stressful, but with a clear plan and good support you can introduce these foods safely and confidently.
When to start
Most babies can start solids around 6 months, and not before 4 months. If your baby has cow’s milk allergy, you can still introduce peanut, egg and other allergens around this time, as long as:
Their cow’s milk allergy symptoms are stable
They are showing the signs of being ready for solids
You feel comfortable and supported
If you’re unsure whether your baby is ready, ask your GP, Paediatrician or a paediatric allergy dietitian.
How to introduce peanut safely
Start with a small amount eg 1/4 tsp. Never give whole nuts as they are a choking risk.
Try one of these options:
A small amount of smooth peanut butter mixed with warm water to make a soft paste
Peanut powder mixed into your baby’s usual food
Peanut butter stirred through pureed fruits or vegetables
Offer a tiny amount at first, wait 10 minutes and watch your baby. If there are no symptoms, give a little more. Once peanut is tolerated, offer it regularly, usually twice a week.
How to introduce egg safely
Start with well cooked egg. Raw or runny egg should not be given to babies.
You can try:
Scrambled egg cooked until firm
Mashed hard boiled egg
A small amount of well cooked egg mixed into puree
Just like with peanut, start with a small amount and increase slowly if there is no reaction.
What about other allergens?
Babies with cow’s milk allergy can usually try all other common allergens unless told otherwise. These include:
Wheat
Soy
Sesame
Tree nuts (as smooth butters or ground nuts only)
Fish
Shellfish
Other legumes
Introduce one new allergen at a time so you can clearly see if a reaction occurs.
What symptoms should you look for?
Allergic reactions often appear quickly, usually within minutes to 2 hours. Watch for:
Hives or a rash spreading onto the body (mouth rash is normally due to a contact reaction, not necessarily an allergy)
Swelling of the lips, face or eyes
Vomiting soon after eating
Coughing, wheezing or difficulty breathing
Pale or floppy appearance
If your baby has trouble breathing or becomes floppy, or you are concerned at all, call an ambulance immediately or seek appropriate medical care.
If you see a mild reaction, stop the food and seek medical advice.
Where should you introduce these foods?
Most families can safely do first introductions at home. You may need further guidance from a medical professional or specialist allergy dietitian if:
Your baby has had a severe reaction in the past. You will need to seek referral to a Paediatric Allergist for further assessment and support.
Your baby has eczema that is hard to control
Your baby has multiple food allergies
An experienced paediatric allergy dietitian can help you safely navigate solids introduction for your baby.
Why work with a paediatric allergy dietitian?
When your baby has a cow’s milk allergy, feeding can feel overwhelming. A paediatric allergy dietitian can:
Help you understand which foods are safe
Create a step-by-step plan for introducing allergens
Support you through breastfeeding or formula decisions
Make sure your baby gets enough nutrients for growth
Reduce the confusion and stress that many parents feel
You don’t have to do this alone. A personalised plan can give you confidence and protect your baby’s long-term health.
Key messages for parents
Babies with cow’s milk allergy still benefit from early introduction of peanut, egg and other allergens
Introduce one allergen at a time and start with small amounts
Watch closely for symptoms
Keep offering tolerated allergens regularly
Get support if you feel unsure – you deserve a clear and safe plan
Book an appointment to chat with an experienced allergy dietitian
For any allergy related information, go to your trusted source of information at https://www.allergy.org.au/
