As a parent, there’s no doubt that keeping your baby healthy is your top priority. So being aware about allergies – including sesame allergies- is important. To help boost your confidence around sesame allergies, we’ve covered the basics including how common it is, who’s at risk and how to spot the signs in your baby as well as finding safe food options.
Key Takeaways about Sesame allergy
- Identifying risk factors and recognising signs of a sesame allergy in babies is vital.
- Safe, nutritious alternatives exist for babies with sesame allergies.
- Careful label reading helps avoid hidden sesame in baby food products.
- Seeking support from healthcare professionals and allergy organisations is beneficial.
Understanding sesame allergy in babies
Learning about sesame allergies can help increase your awareness and protect your baby’s health.
What is a sesame allergy?
Sesame allergies occur when the body reacts to sesame seeds or oil. Symptoms can be mild, like hives, or severe, such as trouble breathing. Tests at the doctor can check for this allergy in babies.
Risk factors for developing a sesame allergy
Some factors can raise your baby’s risk of sesame allergy. These include…
- Family history of food allergies or other allergies
- Early exposure to sesame products
- Eczema or skin issues that let allergens in
Knowing these risks helps you as a parent, and doctors, plan to prevent sesame allergy. This might mean waiting to introduce sesame products and ensuring your baby has regular testing if they are at a high risk.
Symptoms of sesame allergies in babies
Spotting a sesame allergy in your baby early can stop serious reactions and ensure your baby can start treatment fast. Look out for these common symptoms in infants…
- Skin reactions: hives, rash, itching, or swelling
- Digestive issues: vomiting, diarrhoea, or stomach pain
- Respiratory problems: runny nose, sneezing, coughing, or trouble breathing
- Anaphylaxis: a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction
If you think your baby might have a sesame allergy, see your doctor right away. They can do tests to confirm it and plan the best treatment for your baby.
Safe alternatives for a baby with a sesame allergy
If your baby has a sesame allergy, finding safe foods is key. You need to plan meals carefully and check food labels. Luckily, there are many sesame-free options that are good for your baby’s health.
Sesame-free baby food options
When buying baby food, choose products that clearly say they are sesame-free. At Piccolo, we offer a range of products such as fruit and veg purees, and meat and grain-based foods that are free from sesame.
Nutritious substitutes for sesame in your baby’s diet
While sesame is nutritious, there are other foods that offer similar benefits. Avocado, nut butters (if your baby isn’t allergic to nuts), and olive oil are good alternatives. Legumes, tofu, eggs, and lean meats are also great for protein.
Sesame-free recipes for babies
Give these a try…
- Sweet potato and lentil puree
- Banana and avocado mash
- Butternut squash and apple puree
- Chickpea and vegetable soup (blended)
Navigating food labels for your baby’s sesame allergy
Reading food labels is key when you have a baby with a sesame allergy and knowing about allergen labelling laws and finding hidden sesame in baby products is crucial as this helps you make safe choices for your baby’s diet.
By understanding ingredient lists and allergen warnings, you can confidently shop for your baby and keep their diet free from sesame.
Understanding allergen labelling laws
In the UK, food makers must clearly show if their products have sesame or other common allergens. This rule is for both packaged foods and loose or catered foods. Knowing these laws helps you spot sesame in products quickly.
Hidden sources of sesame in baby products
Sesame can be hidden in foods and baby products. Teething biscuits, rusks, and some infant formulas might have sesame and you should also look out for sesame in vegetable oils, hummus, tahini, and spice blends.
Tips for reading food labels
When checking food labels for your baby, look for “sesame” in the list or warnings. Sesame might also be called “benne,” “gingelly,” or “til”.
As well as this, watch for “may contain sesame” or “produced in a facility that also processes sesame” as these products might still be risky for your baby.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through introducing solids.
Avoid any foods with sesame. Sesame might also be called “benne,” “gingelly,” or “til” on pre-made foods.
Try making food at home – this way, you know exactly what has gone into it. Fruit and veg purees as well as blended meats, grains and legumes are great choices for your baby.
Healthy fats like avocado and olive oil are good substitutes too and nut butters are okay if your baby isn’t allergic.
Safe options for baby food include fruits, veggies, and grains like rice and oats. Proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish are also good. Always check labels to make sure they’re sesame-free.
To manage a sesame allergy, avoid sesame and sesame products. Always read labels and make sure you tell others about your little one’s allergy.
