India has released its first unified food allergy guidelines, providing evidence-based recommendations for infant feeding and allergy management. Paediatricians and allergy specialists under the Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP) recommend introducing allergenic foods such as peanuts and eggs between six and nine months after complementary feeding begins, overturning earlier practices of delaying such foods. Exclusive breastfeeding for six months continues to be encouraged, and mothers need not avoid allergenic foods during pregnancy or lactation unless medically advised.
The guidelines also emphasise the difference between sensitisation and true allergy, warning against overdiagnosis that may lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions. Accurate diagnosis should combine detailed clinical history, skin prick tests, IgE testing, and, when needed, supervised oral food challenges. Parents are also advised to distinguish between food allergy, which can be life-threatening, and food intolerance, which is less severe.
Beyond medical management, the guidelines call for better food labelling, school preparedness, public education, and access to lifesaving adrenaline autoinjectors. New therapies, including oral immunotherapy and biologics like omalizumab, are promising but costly and require specialised supervision.
By standardising allergy prevention and management strategies for Indian children, these guidelines aim to reduce the risk of severe reactions, prevent overreaction, and ensure balanced nutrition, helping children grow up safe, healthy, and confident around food.
