New app helps parents safely introduce allergy-causing foods to babies
The National Allergy Council has launched the Food Follower App—a free online tool designed to help parents introduce common allergy-causing foods to babies in age-appropriate forms and maintain them in the diet.
The app is part of the Nip allergies in the Bub program and is based on ASCIA guidelines. These guidelines recommend early introduction of foods like peanut and well-cooked egg soon after starting solids, with continued inclusion at least once a week if tolerated.
Research indicates that early and regular introduction of these foods can reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
The app allows personalization based on the baby's age and family eating habits. It tracks introduced foods, sends reminders, and logs feeding progress and reactions. Records can be shared with partners, carers, and health professionals.
Expert insights
Dr. Sandra Vale, CEO of the National Allergy Council, stated that parents are often unsure how to put prevention advice into practice. "The app turns evidence into practical steps," she said.
Dr. Preeti Joshi, a pediatric clinical immunology and allergy specialist, emphasized that consistency is key to reducing allergy risk—specifically, offering tolerated foods around once a week.
Maria Said AM, Director and Co-chair of the National Allergy Council, noted that the tool reduces stress for busy parents by simplifying tracking and reminders.
Program reach and development
The app was developed following consultations with parents and feedback from the Nip allergies in the Bub program, which reaches over 160,000 parents and healthcare professionals annually.
The initiative is part of broader national efforts to reduce allergic disease burden, supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.