Avoid potential food allergenic exposure: handy hints

A baby with severe food allergy can develop an allergic reaction to foods non only after direct ingestion but also afted after occasional exposure to allergenic foods.

Here there are some additional handy hints, besides the direct food exposure, to avoid exposing your baby to potential food allergens:

1. Kitchen utensils, knives and chopping boards are often contaminated with potential food allergens. Always use a freshly cleaned knife and chopping board to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Deli slicers are commonly used for both meat and cheese products and may therefore be cross contaminated with milk.
3. Skin contact with foods likely to cause an allergic reaction such as peanut shell, egg, eggshell, milk etc. may cause skin irritation and if so, should be avoided.
4. Wash your hands after handling allergenic products, such as milk, eggs or other allergens, before touching your child.
5. If your baby is sensitive to peanuts, other nuts (tree nuts) may cause a similar reaction. It is always best to consult your doctor who may recommend eliminating them from the home and other places (e.g., child care) of possible contact. Some doctors advise omitting all nuts until your child is about 4 years of age.