Update on Early Introduction of Peanut to Prevent Allergy Development: Challenges with Implementation

This review summarizes the evidence leading towards the development of new guidelines that recommend early introduction of peanut to prevent the development of peanut allergy. It also reviews the current understanding of challenges faced with implementation of these recommendations on a widespread basis.

Prior recommendations to avoid feeding allergenic foods to infants have been updated and reversed. This paradigm shift in advice has created an opportunity on a population level to try and halt the recent increase in prevalence of peanut allergy. However, challenges with implementation of these new guidelines exist in many areas. While evidence supports the early introduction of peanut to prevent allergy development, the application and challenges faced with these recommendations are not fully understood. Persistent efforts from pediatricians and allergists, as well as acceptance from parents, will be necessary in order to make a significant impact on the prevalence of peanut allergy.