A study from the University of Western Australia has found that formula feeding within the first three days of life significantly increases the risk of developing peanut and multiple food allergies in infants.
Using data from 666 mother-infant pairs in the Australian ORIGINS cohort, researchers compared infants exclusively fed colostrum (early breastmilk) with those who received both colostrum and formula in the first three days of life. The study found that partial colostrum-fed infants had a significantly higher risk of developing peanut allergy and multiple food allergies by 12–18 months. However, among infants who received nine or more colostrum feeds per day during this period, no cases of peanut allergy were observed, regardless of whether they also received formula. This suggests that exclusive colostrum intake may offer protective effects, with high volumes, even in the presence of early formula supplementation, also offering protection.https://medicaldialogues.in/pediatrics-neonatology/news/early-formula-feeding-linked-to-higher-peanut-allergy-risk-study-156826
Colostrum, produced by a mother in small quantities during the first 72 hours after birth, contains high concentrations of immune-supporting compounds such as IgA, lactoferrin, and human milk oligosaccharides. These bioactive molecules are largely absent in infant feeding formulas but are critical for shaping gut microbiota and promoting immune tolerance.
The study findings suggest that early formula use may disrupt immune development and highlight the protective role of colostrum. Researchers recommend promoting exclusive colostrum feeding in the first three days of life, and earlier allergen introduction to reduce allergy risk, especially in cases of non-medically indicated formula supplementation.
Prior to recent publication in the journal ‘Allergy’, this research was presented at the 2025 AAAAI / WAO Joint Congress, and reported by the Allergen Bureau earlier this year.
Reference: Bhasin M, et al. 2025. Colostrum as a Protective Factor Against Peanut Allergy: Evidence From a Birth Cohort. Allergy. DOI:10.1111/all.70043
