Sadly, almost half of all babies are not fed eggs – partly due to the needless fears of nursery staff, say researchers. The findings of a new study have raised concerns among experts who point out that evidence demonstrates the early introduction of eggs can help reduce allergy risks.
Researchers gave questionnaires to families with babies. The results showed that eggs – despite providing essential nutrients for growth and development – are offered weekly to just 46% of babies aged 6-8 months.
Infants were more likely to be offered eggs in “baby-led weaning situations” – where purées are bypassed in favour of finger foods – or where they had stay-at-home mums. Delaying the introduction of eggs may result in a higher risk of food sensitivity and allergy, experts believe. Around 2% of UK children under the age of 2 are affected by egg allergies.
Dr Hannah Roman, who collected the data, said: “We need to explore why some nurseries are not putting eggs on the menu. Is it out of date concerns about allergy and food safety, or perhaps giving toast and cereal for breakfast is seen as more convenient?”.
Why confine eggs to breakfast anyway?!?!
Dieticians and paediatricians advocate the early introduction of eggs to reduce the risk of allergies suddenly developing. Introducing them at six months is recommended to reduce this risk. Eggs are a healthy, inexpensive food (mostly) for babies, containing protein for growth, Vitamin D for bones and immunity, and choline for brain and cognitive function.
Laid In Britain eggs are accredited by the FSA to be safe to use for babies and all vulnerable groups. We did “Eggs for Your Baby” information a while ago and produced literature accordingly.
