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Peanut for Babies: How and When to Introduce It Safely

The allergen parents fear most, and the one where getting in early matters most. Never whole peanuts, though: think thinned peanut butter or dissolvable puffs.

When to introduce: Around 6 months (introduce early)
Common allergen?: Yes — one of the big 9
Texture: Thinned smooth peanut butter or dissolvable puffs
Key nutrients: Protein, healthy fats, niacin

When can babies eat peanut?

The landmark LEAP study found that introducing peanut early and keeping it in the diet dramatically lowered the chance of a peanut allergy in at-risk babies. For most babies, that means offering peanut in a safe form around 6 months rather than waiting.

⚠️ If your baby has severe eczema, an egg allergy, or a known food allergy, talk to your pediatrician before introducing peanut. They may recommend testing or an in-office introduction.

How to prepare peanut, by age

6 monthsThin smooth peanut butter with warm water, breast milk, or formula until it is easily swallowed, or stir peanut powder into a food your baby already eats. Dissolvable peanut puffs are another safe option.

9 monthsThinned peanut butter spread on soft toast strips.

12 months+Peanut butter spread thinly. Still never whole peanuts.

Is peanut safe? Choking & prep

Never give whole peanuts or thick, sticky globs of peanut butter: both are choking hazards. Always thin it out or use a dissolvable form. Introduce earlier in the day and watch for about two hours.

Nutrition

Peanut provides protein, healthy fats, and niacin. Beyond nutrition, regular exposure is part of what helps maintain tolerance once peanut is introduced.

Goes well with

Banana · Oatmeal · Yogurt

Storage & freezing

Keep peanut butter as the label directs. Natural peanut butter separates, so stir it well and refrigerate after opening.

Introducing this allergen

Frequently asked questions

When should I introduce peanut to my baby?

For most babies, around 6 months once they have started solids and handled a few first foods. Introducing peanut early and keeping it in the diet is associated with a much lower risk of peanut allergy.

How do I give peanut to a baby safely?

Never give whole peanuts or thick spoonfuls of peanut butter. Thin smooth peanut butter with a little warm water, breast milk, or formula, or mix peanut powder into a food your baby already eats.

How often should I keep offering peanut?

Once introduced without a reaction, keeping peanut in the diet regularly (a few times a week) is part of what helps maintain tolerance. Ask your pediatrician about the right routine for your baby.

What are the signs of a peanut reaction?

Watch for about two hours. Mild signs include hives, swelling, or vomiting. Any trouble breathing or swelling of the tongue or throat is an emergency: call emergency services.

Sources

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How we write these: from widely published pediatric guidance (AAP, NIAID 2017 guidelines, the LEAP study), with sources cited on every page. Pending review by a pediatric professional.

This is general information, not medical advice, and has not been individually reviewed for your baby. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's diet, introducing allergens, and any reaction. In an emergency, contact emergency services.

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