Perceptions of Early Peanut Introduction in a Midwestern Community

Early introduction of peanut-containing products has been suggested as a means to prevent development of peanut allergy. Current feeding practices among caregivers is variable and not always aligned with guideline-based recommendations. This study sought to understand the feeding practices and population perceptions regarding early introduction of peanut in a local community. Eighty-four parents of children (mean age 2.65 years +/- 2.86) seen in a general pediatric clinic were surveyed before or after a well-child visit. The goal of the survey was to understand feeding practices related to introduction of peanut-containing foods. Seventy-three percent (61/83) reported giving peanut-containing foods to their children. Out of these 61 parents, 23% introduced peanut-containing foods at 5 months. Of the 23 who had not given peanut-containing foods yet, 43% did not plan to give peanut-containing foods in the future. Of those who would give peanut-containing foods (N=26), 44% would give peanut at 5 months. Most parents (75%) were instructed about when to introduce peanut by their healthcare provider. Sixty-two percent had heard of early introduction of peanut as a way to prevent peanut allergy, and 63% heard this from the media or a mixture of sources. Eighty-one percent would give peanut-containing foods prior to 12 months if instructed to do so by a physician. Parental surveys were helpful in identifying current practices with regard to peanut introduction and trusted sources of information for parents. This information will be used to help design interventional studies to influence feeding practices and reduce the risk of peanut allergy.