UK babies not eating eggs and nuts early enough – and it could raise allergy risks
New research reveals families are missing the important window to reduce childhood allergies
A new UK study has found that many parents are still waiting too long to give their babies foods like nuts and eggs – despite strong NHS advice to introduce these earlier to help prevent allergies.
Delaying nuts and eggs may raise allergy risk, study shows
Researchers from the University of Portsmouth have revealed that a significant number of parents are ignoring public health guidelines around introducing common allergenic foods like eggs and peanuts – and it may be putting their children at a higher risk of developing food allergies.
The study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, tracked 390 families during pregnancy and up to their child’s second birthday. It found that by 12 months, one in five babies had still never tried egg, and a third had not been given peanuts or tree nuts – despite the NHS recommending these foods should be introduced from around six months.
Lead researcher Dr Suzannah Helps from the University of Portsmouth said, “For years, families were advised to avoid allergenic foods during pregnancy and early childhood, but research now shows this guidance may have actually increased the risk of allergies, particularly in children.”
What the current NHS advice says
The current guidance from the NHS and leading allergy charities is clear: when your baby is around six months old and ready for solid food, you can begin to introduce common allergens – including egg, nuts (in the form of smooth butter or ground nuts), milk, gluten and fish – one at a time and in small amounts.
These foods should be introduced while continuing to breastfeed or formula feed, with close observation for any signs of a reaction.
There’s also no evidence that avoiding allergens during pregnancy helps prevent allergies – and in fact, the opposite might be true.
Family history of allergies? You might be even more cautious – but that’s not always helpful
The study also found that babies with a family history of allergies were more likely to have these foods delayed, suggesting that extra caution could actually backfire.
“In our research, we saw that babies with a parent or sibling with an allergy were more often avoiding eggs and nuts,” said Dr Helps. “This is worrying because these are the very children who could benefit the most from early exposure.”
The findings echo major studies like the LEAP (Learning Early About Peanut) and EAT (Enquiring About Tolerance) trials, which have shown that introducing allergens early can help reduce the risk of developing allergies later on.
Why it's confusing for parents
The mixed messages parents have received in the past may still be playing a role. “It’s only relatively recently that the advice has changed,” explains Dr Helps. “Many parents are still operating under the older belief that delaying allergens is safer.”
And for busy new parents dealing with weaning, potential choking fears, or a lack of support from their GP or health visitor, knowing when and how to introduce allergenic foods can still feel overwhelming.
What needs to change?
Dr Helps and her team say the results highlight a real need for better public education about current guidelines.
“It’s vital that this updated understanding reaches the public, as delayed introduction of these foods continues to contribute to the allergy epidemic,” she said.
The researchers suggest more consistent messaging from midwives, GPs, and health visitors – as well as easy-to-follow weaning resources for parents – could help close the gap between what the science says and what actually happens at mealtimes.
How to introduce allergens into your baby's diet
If you’re starting your weaning journey soon – or know someone who is – the key takeaway is simple: introducing common allergens from six months is not just safe, it’s beneficial.
Start small, offer one new allergen at a time, and keep a close eye on your baby. If you have a strong family history of allergies or any concerns, speak to your GP or health visitor for tailored support.
For more guidance on weaning and allergies, check out the NHS Start for Life website or speak to your local health professional.
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