If you read my post yesterday on food allergies, then you’ll know that the recommendation on when to introduce allergenic foods like peanuts has changed.
New research is stating that introducing allergenic foods before 12 months old is beneficial for reducing the likelihood for food allergies in babies. *Please read the full article on 2/3/20 for more information*
Along with this new research has come new products designed to help parents with introducing foods such as peanuts, shellfish, and eggs.
Let’s take a look at the 3 popular products:
1. Inspired Start- According to their website, “The only baby food designed to introduce 8 common allergens”. This product contains food pouches with combinations such as “Apple and Peanut”, “Mango and Soy”, “Banana and Tree Nut”, “Pear and Egg”. Each pouch contains 1 gram of allergen expect for the Banana and Tree Nut combo which includes 3 grams. No cow’s milk option; however, they do have sesame seed which is considered the 9th top allergen. Their foods are made in the United States in an FDA-registered facility that strictly adheres to food production GMPs. According to their website, “We follow strict guidelines to ensure there is no cross-contamination between ingredients in different pouches”.
Pros: I do love that they are Non GMO and organic! And Free Shipping from their website. Each pouch has 2 ingredients which makes it easy to pinpoint triggers if an allergic response results.
Con: As of 2/1/20, their products are out of stock on their website, Amazon Prime, and Thrive Market. Price unknown.
2. Spoonfulone- According to their website, “Designed specifically for the Food Allergy Protection Plan, each product includes a spoonful of our Foundational Food Blend — small, gentle amounts of peanuts along with milk, shellfish (shrimp), tree nuts (almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios, and walnuts), egg, fish (cod and salmon), grains (oats and wheat), soy, and sesame”. They have packets that you mix in with baby’s food (6+ mos), puffs (6+mos), and oat crackers (12+mos).
Pros: Certified Organic and free shipping. Also available on Amazon Prime.
Cons: I don’t recommend the rice puffs (see my article on rice cereal to see why I avoid rice based snacks for infants. Also, reviews on Amazon aren’t great and many say their children don’t enjoy the strong flavor. The packets contain all top allergenic foods, which would make it difficult to pinpoint a trigger if an allergic response results. The expensive option is around $2 per day.
3. Ready, Set, Food- is a food allergy prevention system that can protect babies from developing peanut, egg, and dairy allergies. Simply add a pre-measured packet once a day to breast milk or formula in a baby’s bottle or to mix in with a baby’s first purees or solid foods.
Pros: Organic and Non GMO. Available on Amazon Prime. Easy to follow guide to help with introduction of allergens. Introduction of one allergen at a time.
Cons: Around $1.20 per day, which is something to consider since this cost is on top of the cost of feeding your child.
Special Note: All products advise you to consult with your child’s pediatrician before purchasing. Do not give to your child if your child has a food allergy or is allergic to any ingredients. Please consult a healthcare practitioner if your child is taking any medication or has a serious medical condition.
1. Inspired Start: www.inspired-start.com. Unavailable as of 2/1/20.
2. Spoonfulone: https://amzn.to/2uQ7X3X
3. Ready, Set, Food: https://amzn.to/2OkEw0J
Questions? Just ask!
Want to work with me 1:1 to create the perfect diet for you and/or your family? Contact me today at dana@thrivekin.com.