A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics has identified over 300 potential risk factors for food allergies but found no link between vaccines and the development of these allergies. The research, conducted by the Joint Taskforce on Allergy Practice Parameters (JTFPP), involved collaboration with researchers from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and other advocacy organizations.
The meta-analysis was led by Dr. Derek Chu of McMaster University and reviewed data from 190 studies involving 2.8 million individuals. Risk factors were categorized based on the strength of evidence linking them to food allergy.
Matthew Greenhawt, MD, AAFA’s Chief Medical Officer and a co-author of the study, explained, “The study confirms that the risk of a child developing food allergy is relatively low – less than 5 out of 100 babies will develop food allergy.” He continued, “The study identified 342 risk factors, but the results tell us that there is no single cause or risk for food allergy. Among the risk factors associated with high certainty of developing food allergy are having eczema, seasonal allergies, or wheezing early in life; delaying peanut introduction into diet; and having a mother or sibling with a food allergy. Vaccines are not associated with food allergy risk.”
Other factors were also linked to increased odds but with lower certainty. Some can be influenced by parental choices—such as introducing peanuts and eggs early in a child’s diet—which may reduce risk. However, many identified risks are outside parental control.
Researchers noted that some risk factors offer health benefits despite their association with higher odds of developing an allergy—for example, necessary antibiotics given to pregnant women or infants during their first year.
Melanie Carver, AAFA’s chief mission officer and another co-author on the study, advised parents: “We encourage parents to focus on the factors they can control, like early food introduction. But understand that even when you take steps to reduce risk, factors beyond your control may still result in food allergy. You should also know that even if you or your child has risk factors, there is a very high chance your child will not develop a food allergy.”
Founded in 1953, AAFA remains one of the leading patient advocacy organizations dedicated to supporting those affected by asthma and allergies through research and education.
For more information about AAFA’s work visit https://aafa.org/ or https://www.kidswithfoodallergies.org/.
