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Infant Peanut Exposure Cuts Allergy Rates
16 Jan
Summary
- Introducing peanuts early reduced allergy diagnoses by 27%.
- Eggs have surpassed peanuts as the most common allergen.
- New guidance encourages allergen introduction at 4-6 months.
New research from the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia reveals that early introduction of peanuts to infants has led to a substantial decrease in peanut allergy diagnoses. The study, analyzing data from pediatric practices across the U.S., found a 27% reduction in peanut allergy diagnoses and a 38% decrease in overall food allergies.
Interestingly, the study also identified eggs as the most common food allergen among children, surpassing peanuts. These findings support updated national guidelines, including those issued in 2021, which recommend introducing major allergens like peanut and egg as early as 4 to 6 months for all infants.
The research, published in October 2025, builds upon landmark studies from 2015 and earlier guidance. While the study acknowledges limitations, including data cutoff in early 2019, its results provide strong evidence supporting public health interventions aimed at preventing childhood food allergies through early dietary exposure.
