FAQs

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Will Taste Bubs introduce my child to all allergens?

Taste Bubs is designed to introduce your baby to the 7 most common food allergens that account for the majority of food allergy reactions. These allergens are carefully selected based on the current clinical guidelines and research on early allergen introduction. While Taste Bubs covers the majority of food allergens, it may not include every possible allergen, as individual sensitivities can vary.

When can my baby start taking Taste Bubs?

The current recommendations suggest introducing solid foods, including allergens, around six months of age (but not before four months) and when your baby shows signs of readiness for solids. Every baby is different, so it's essential to look for signs that your baby is ready to start solids, such as holding their head up, showing interest in food, and being able to move food to the back of the mouth and swallow.

Will my baby have a reaction to Taste Bubs?

Although Taste Bubs is designed for safe allergen introduction, it's impossible to predict whether an individual baby will have an allergic reaction. Yes, we know that early introduction can reduce the risk of developing allergies. BUT, there are other factors involved like genetics and where you live (did you know, people who live in more remote areas have lower rates of food allergy?). We describe the risk of food allergies as a genetic and environmental interplay. Early introduction is one of the environmental factors that we can improve to reduce the risk. Reactions can vary from mild to severe, and it's essential to monitor your baby closely when introducing any new foods, including Taste Bubs. If your child has a suspected or confirmed allergen please do not give them that Tastes Bubs sachet. Unfortunately, exposure with Taste Bubs will not get rid of an established allergy. Hit us up at info@tastebubs.com.au if you would like a custom box without the allergens your bub is allergic to!

Can I mix Taste Bubs with breast milk, formula, or other foods?

Yes, Taste Bubs can be mixed with breast milk, formula, or other age-appropriate foods like purees, yogurts, and cereals. This flexibility makes it easy to incorporate Taste Bubs into your baby's regular meals and ensure a smooth introduction of allergens. Depending on the type of lid or teat, Taste Bubs powders may be too thick to pass through some bottles if mixed with liquids, just like a smoothie would be. But it works great through a straw, on a spoon and through most sippy cups :)

What allergens are included in Taste Bubs?

Taste Bubs includes 7 of the most common food allergens: egg, peanuts, walnut, cashew, almond, sesame, and soy. These allergens account for the majority of food allergy reactions, making Taste Bubs an effective way to introduce your baby to these potential allergens early on.

What should I do if my baby has a reaction to Taste Bubs?

If your baby shows signs of an allergic reaction after consuming Taste Bubs, stop giving that food and seek medical advice immediately. Symptoms can include hives, swelling, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, or a sudden drop in blood pressure. It's essential to act quickly and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can I use Taste Bubs if my baby has already been diagnosed with a food allergy?

If your baby has been diagnosed with a food allergy, consult with your healthcare provider before using Taste Bubs. They can provide guidance on whether Taste Bubs is appropriate for your baby and help you develop a customized plan for introducing allergens based on your baby's specific needs. We’re always happy to help, email us at info@tastebubs.com.au

Can I give my baby Taste Bubs if they have a cold or are generally unwell?

If your baby is experiencing a cold or other illness, it's best to wait until they are feeling better before introducing new foods or allergens. Introducing allergens when a baby is unwell may make it difficult to differentiate between symptoms of illness and an allergic reaction. Additionally, your baby's immune system may be more sensitive during illness, so it's best to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance on when to resume Taste Bubs. If you have missed a few days due to illness or you forgot (it’s all good, we’re parents too, we know how it goes) that’s OK! Just restart by giving one sachet per day, never more, no need to make up for lost days, just pick up where you left off. One sachet per day. 

When is my child ready for solids?

As per the current clinical guidelines, it is recommended to start introducing solid foods around six months of age (not before four months), and when your baby is ready. Signs that your baby is ready to start solids include good head control, sitting upright with support, showing interest in food, and being able to open their mouth and swallow food.

What are choking hazards to avoid when your baby is first learning to eat? 

It is important to avoid foods that can cause choking such as whole nuts, popcorn, hard candies, and raw fruits and vegetables that are not grated or cooked. Other foods to avoid in the first year include cow's milk, honey, and sugary or salty foods. Always supervise your baby while they are eating and cut food into small, bite-sized pieces.

My child has eczema - should I avoid allergens?

Research suggests that avoiding allergenic foods in babies with eczema may not necessarily prevent the development of food allergies. In fact, the current clinical guidelines recommend introducing common allergenic foods in an age-appropriate form before 12 months of age in babies with severe eczema. And this is backed by science! A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that children with severe eczema had a significant reduction in rates of peanut allergy when peanut was introduced early and given regularly.  This is where products like Taste Bubs can come in handy, as it provides an easy and safe way to introduce allergens early on.

If baby has a sibling with a food allergy.. should the baby avoid that allergen?

It is not recommended to automatically avoid an allergenic food if your baby has a sibling with a food allergy. The risk of developing allergies is both genetic and environmental. Meaning, if there are allergies in a family member, the risk is increased for all children in the family. But we can reduce the environmental risk with early allergen introduction. 

Why is vitamin D also important for allergen prevention?

Vitamin D is important for many aspects of health, including immune function. There is emerging evidence that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with an increased risk of food allergy. Vitamin D can be obtained through sunlight exposure, certain foods such as fatty fish and egg yolks, and supplements. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any supplements.

Why is it important for pregnant mothers to have a diet that also includes the allergens?

Research suggests that maternal intake of allergenic foods during pregnancy may reduce the risk of food allergy in their children. However, it is important to note that this is a complex issue and more research is needed in this area. Pregnant women should also talk to their doctors about any dietary changes or concerns.

Why you should avoid barrier creams with food proteins... (remember natural does not always mean best!) 

Barrier creams and moisturisers with food proteins may actually increase the risk of developing food allergy, particularly in individuals who have eczema. While natural ingredients may seem like a good idea, it is important to be cautious when it comes to introducing potential allergens to your skin or your baby's skin. If you have any concerns about a particular ingredient, talk to your doctor or a dermatologist.

Early introduction to the 7 most common allergens.