A Survey of Canadian Dietitians on Identification of Infants at High Risk of Food Allergy and Frequency of Allergenic Food Consumption

Abstract

Purpose: To assess knowledge of Canadian dietitians on the topics of food allergy and food allergy prevention guidelines, including introduction of allergenic solids to infants at risk of food allergy. Methods: An online survey was distributed via email listservs targeting Canadian dietitians. Results: In total, 144 of 261 dietitians completed the survey (60.5%). Respondents recommend introduction of peanut (89.5%) and allergenic solids (91.2%) within the recommended age of 4–6 months for infants at high risk of food allergy, but only 26.2% recommend offering peanut three times per week once it has been introduced. In identifying what constitutes an infant at high risk of developing peanut allergy, dietitians expressed lower comfort levels and lower number of correct responses. Conclusions: Dietitians demonstrated they are up to date regarding the timing of introduction of allergenic solids, but not the frequency of consumption once introduced, for infants at high risk of food allergy. They also expressed low comfort level identifying risk factors for peanut allergy. There are opportunities for further education of dietitians, as well as potential to further utilize dietitian services for the benefit of patients with food allergy or who are at risk for food allergy.