Delaware Adopts Law Covering Early Introduction of Food Allergens

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Mother holding her infant while the baby eats a piece of bread with their hand

Allergy & Asthma Network applauds Delaware for passing a law that requires insurance companies to cover early introduction of food allergens.

The legislation would allow parents and caregivers to obtain for free at least one peanut and one egg food allergen supplement. The measure requires insurance coverage – including Medicaid – for these supplements. This makes them more affordable for Delaware families.

The supplements can be obtained from a doctor. Parents and caregivers would give them to infants to start eating at 4 to 6 months of age. The goal is to help stop peanut and egg allergies before they can start.

Delaware is the first U.S. state to pass this legislation. Gov. John Carney signed HB-274 into law on Aug. 29, 2024. The new law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2026.

“This is an important step forward for food allergy parents in Delaware,” says Charmayne Anderson, Director of Advocacy at Allergy & Asthma Network. “By passing the law, Delaware is helping families give their children a healthy start in life. It’s a big win for parents, caregivers, doctors, and the fight against food allergies.”

Preventing food allergies in children

For many years, doctors thought avoiding certain foods like peanuts would help prevent allergies. But research in the last eight years has changed this approach. It turns out that introducing these foods early can help a child’s immune system recognize them as safe. This could prevent allergic reactions later in life.

Doctors now recommend giving babies small amounts of peanut and egg products. This is especially the case if the babies are at high risk for allergies. High-risk babies include those with eczema or a family history of food allergies.

Approximately 20 million Americans live with food allergies, including 4 million children. One in 13 children is diagnosed with a food allergy. Up to 40% of children with food allergies have had at least one severe reaction. The rate of anaphylaxis is higher in children ages 0-4 than in any other age group.

Food allergy advocacy in your state

Allergy & Asthma Network urges more U.S. states to pass similar laws. If more states follow Delaware’s lead, it will become easier for parents across the country to protect their children from developing food allergies.

We encourage you to get involved in your state. Urge your state lawmakers to introduce and/or pass a similar legislation. Help families in your state have peace of mind knowing their babies are getting the best chance to avoid food allergies.

Find out how you can become an advocate. Reach out to your state representatives and take action today.