Introducing Peanuts to Babies: Safety & Timing

Peanuts are common allergens that can result in serious allergic reactions and peanut butter is a choking hazard for young children. For those reasons, parents should not give peanuts or peanut butter to babies.

Considerations

• A peanut is a common allergen and generally not recommended for infants. Also, the consistency of peanut butter poses a chocking hazard to infants.

Recommendations

• Dr. Sears (askdrsears.com) recommends waiting until at least the age of 2 before offering a child any peanuts or peanut butter.

Allergic Reaction

• After giving a child peanut butter the first time, be aware of symptoms that might indicate a peanut allergy. Symptoms may include hives, vomiting, diarrhea and difficulty breathing

Warning

• If you think your child is having an allergic reaction to peanuts, call 9-1-1 and seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

Misconceptions

• Children who are allergic to peanuts may not remain allergic to peanuts. According to Baby Center, 20 percent of all children with peanut allergies outgrow them at some point.