A decade after research showed early peanut exposure can prevent allergy, a new Pediatrics study reports that changing U.S. guidance has pushed peanuts from the top spot among food allergies in children under 3. Led by Dr. David Hill, analysis of records from more than 120,000 children links early introduction to a 43% drop in peanut allergy and a 36% drop in any food allergy; Hill estimates at least 40,000 children were spared peanut allergies. Some experts urge caution, citing diagnostic-code limits and uneven adoption, but Hill says the shift may be slowing a lifelong condition few outgrow.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.