Printable baby allergen introduction log

When an allergen log is useful

Once your baby is ready for solid foods, a simple record can stop you wondering whether egg happened on Tuesday or merely appeared on the shopping list. It can also give a GP, health visitor or dietitian a clearer account if you notice a possible symptom.

The NHS advises introducing foods that can trigger allergic reactions one at a time from around six months so a reaction is easier to spot. If tolerated, those foods should become part of the baby’s usual diet. The AAP also advises against delaying common allergens once a baby is ready, while telling families with severe eczema or an immediate food reaction to speak to their clinician first.

How to use the printable

Record the food and the baby-appropriate form you used, the amount, date and time. If you notice something, describe exactly what happened and when it started rather than deciding on the page that it was an allergy. The remaining rows can also hold later offers of foods that were tolerated.

Whole nuts are a choking risk. Follow current NHS guidance on safe forms and textures for your baby’s stage.

Do not use it as a home challenge

This log is not for reintroducing a food that your baby has already reacted to, or for changing a clinician’s allergy plan. If your baby has a diagnosed allergy, severe eczema, or a previous immediate reaction, get individual advice before introducing relevant allergens.

Stop the food and seek medical advice if you suspect a reaction. Breathing difficulty or swelling of the throat or tongue can be signs of anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency. Call 999.