Food Allergies in Infants

Ten years ago the rules seemed so clear: egg whites and peanut butter were not allowed for infants.
Now that has all changed. The thinking was that we could reduce the chance of becoming allergic to these foods if we delayed eating them as infants. But as researchers recorded the statistics, it seemed as if the opposite were actually true.  By delaying the introduction of these foods to  our children, more of our children were actually becoming allergic to these foods.  Dietitians of Canada has put into policy what the researchers have been recording for the last number of years. 

Dietitians of Canada: Waiting until your baby is older does not prevent food allergy.
(http://www.dietitians.ca/Downloadable-Content/Public/6-to-12-First-Foods.aspx)

Now, 6-12 month old infants are encouraged to have egg, peanut butter (in small bits or in recipes - it is still a choking hazard), berries, wheat and tomatoes.  All in the hopes that being introduced to these foods ealier will mean there will be a whole new generation of people that has less food allergies than the last generation.  I am hopeful.  My own children do not have allergies but I have counselled parents of children who do and it is limiting for the whole family. I love food and being able to have a wide variety of food is so enjoyable!