Deciding whether a child is truly allergic to a food, or deciding whether a food allergy has resolved with time, can be difficult. At times having the child eat the food may be necessary to decide this. If there is a chance of a significant food allergic reaction then a supervised food challenge may be recommended.

Waiting times for food challenge vary.  The Starship service generally runs a "summer catch up" food challenge programme, doing many food challenges over summer months when the hospital is generally quieter. If your child is waiting for a food challenge make sure we have your correct phone numbers / mobile - there are often last minute cancellations for children booked for food challenge, so you may be able to be offered a cancellation slot at short notice.

• Food Challenge Information - advice for families (PDF, 151.8 KB)