Starting your baby on solid foods is an exciting milestone, but it can also raise many questions - especially around food allergies. As medical professionals, we want to share the latest evidence-based guidelines to help you navigate this important stage confidently.
When to Start Solids
The optimal time to introduce solid foods is around six months of age, though not before four months. Your baby is ready when they:
- Have good head and neck control
- Can sit upright when supported
- Show interest in food and watch you eat
- Reach for food
- Open their mouth when offered food on a spoon
The Latest Approach to Allergy Prevention
Current research shows that early introduction of common allergy-causing foods can help prevent food allergies from developing. This approach is particularly important for babies with severe eczema, existing food allergies, or a family history of allergies.
Key Foods to Introduce by 12 Months
- Well-cooked egg
- Smooth peanut butter/paste
- Cow's milk (dairy)
- Tree nuts (as smooth pastes)
- Soy
- Sesame
- Wheat
- Fish and seafood
Best Practices for Introduction
- Start with iron-rich foods around six months of age, such as iron-fortified cereals, pureed meats, or well-cooked egg
- Introduce one new food at a time, particularly with common allergens, so you can easily identify any reactions
- Continue regular exposure - offer these foods twice weekly once successfully introduced
- Maintain texture safety - always use smooth nut spreads or flours, never whole nuts or pieces
- Keep breastfeeding if possible while introducing solids
Signs of an Allergic Reaction
Watch for:
- Swelling of the lips, eyes, or face
- Hives or welts
- Vomiting
- Significant behavior changes
- Difficulty breathing (seek immediate medical attention)
Note: Minor redness around the mouth is usually just skin irritation, not an allergic reaction.
Professional Guidance
While these guidelines apply to most babies, every child is unique. We recommend booking an appointment with one of our experienced GPs if you:
- Have concerns about allergies
- Need personalized advice about timing
- Want a detailed feeding plan
- Have questions about your baby's readiness for solids
Our doctors can provide personalized guidance based on your baby's specific needs and circumstances.
To discuss your baby's transition to solid foods: ...Book Now... We're here to support you through this exciting developmental stage.
This information is based on current ASCIA guidelines for infant feeding and allergy prevention. Always seek medical advice for specific concerns about your baby's health and development.
