Science Friday
Microdosing Peanut Butter Could Alleviate Some Peanut Allergies
Apr 7, 2025
Dr. Scott Sicherer, Director of the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital, sheds light on the alarming rise of peanut allergies among children, with rates tripling over the past two decades. He discusses innovative research where microdosing peanut butter significantly increases tolerance in children without severe reactions. The conversation covers various treatments, the importance of early exposure to allergens, and the nuances between food allergies and intolerances, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in food allergy advancements.
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Quick takeaways
- The rise in peanut allergies among children may be linked to modern living conditions and previous dietary guidelines restricting peanut exposure.
- New research suggests that gradual microdosing with peanut butter can significantly increase tolerance in allergic children over time.
Deep dives
The Rising Rates of Food Allergies
Food allergies have become increasingly common, with studies showing a significant rise over the past few decades. In the late 1990s, the rate of peanut allergies in children was reported as 1 in 250, but it increased to 1 in 70 by 2011. This trend has sparked discussions among experts about underlying causes, with the hygiene hypothesis being a leading explanation. As modern living conditions have become cleaner, the immune system may be more prone to overreacting to non-threatening substances like food.
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