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Background:  Modification of the intestinal microbiota by administration of probiotic bacteria may be a potential approach to prevent allergic disease. We aimed to study primary prevention of allergic disease in high‐risk children by pre‐ and postnatal supplementation of selected probiotic bacteria.

Methods:  In a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial, a mixture of probiotic bacteria selected by in‐vitro experiments (Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Lactococcus lactis; Ecologic^® Panda) was prenatally administered to mothers of high‐risk children (i.e. positive family history of allergic disease) and to their offspring for the first 12 months of life.

Results:  Parental‐reported eczema during the first 3 months of life was significantly lower in the intervention group compared with placebo, 6/50 vs 15/52 (P = 0.035). After 3 months, the incidence of eczema was similar in both groups …