How to Introduce Eggs to Babies

Introducing Egg

Do we need to do yolk first or go all egg in?

While the internet is an amazing source of information, it can also be filled with a lot of misinformation when it comes to feeding our little ones.

Many parents have heard that they should introduce the egg yolk first because it isn’t as allergenic as the egg white. You might also have heard that the yolk is rich in nutrients, but the white is harder to digest and doesn’t offer as much nutritionally.

But is this true, or just another example of misinformation making things more complicated than they need to be?

Do You Need to Separate Egg Yolk and Egg White?

Firstly, let’s tackle the allergy myth around egg white.

It is true that there is more protein in the egg white than in the yolk. However, if your baby is allergic to egg, they will need to avoid the whole egg.

It may be that the protein they react to is found in the white, but it is not possible to safely separate the two when it comes to allergy. It is also not possible to predict which specific part of the egg a child may react to.

Introducing the yolk first does not reduce the likelihood of developing an allergy.

What we do know from high-quality research is that introducing allergens before 12 months of age may reduce the risk of allergy developing. So when it comes to egg, introducing the whole egg shortly after starting solids is the best approach.

How to Introduce Egg

Start small and build up gradually, following our framework.

• Rub a small amount of well cooked mashed egg inside your bubs lip. Wait 3-5 minutes.

• If no reaction move on to around ¼ teaspoon of cooked egg mixed into a food your baby already tolerates. 

• For the second exposure, increase to ½ teaspoon

• For the third exposure, increase to 1–2 teaspoons

If there are any signs of a reaction:

• Stop feeding the egg

• Wipe down your baby’s hands and face

• Contact your GP for advice

If there are signs of anaphylaxis, follow your emergency plan immediately.

Important: Egg should always be well cooked before 12 months of age for food safety.

Nutrition — The Whole Egg

Secondly, let’s talk about the nutrition powerhouse that is egg — and we mean the whole egg.

It is a myth that the egg white doesn’t have value or is too hard to digest. While the yolk and the white contain different nutrients, both offer a lot and are a great addition to your baby’s diet.

The Egg White

• Around 10% protein

• Contains important B vitamins, potassium and magnesium

While it contains fewer vitamins and minerals than the yolk, it is still a valuable and nutritious part of the egg.

The Egg Yolk

• Rich in vitamins A, D, E, K and B vitamins

• One of the richest sources of choline, which supports brain development

• Contains iron, calcium, selenium, zinc, copper and healthy fats

A Simple Takeaway

Hopefully this has helped put your mind at ease and you’re feeling more confident about including the whole egg in your baby’s diet.

Eggs are a great, protein-rich option — especially for breakfast, when it’s easy to fall into a cereal rut.

Easy Ways to Include Egg

• Eggy French toast

• Omelette

• Cooked through porridge for added protein

• Savoury breakfast muffins

• Hard boiled egg mashed through avocado on toast