1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

The early introduction of peanut-containing foods into an infant's diet between 4-6 months old has been shown to reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy by up to 81%. Every year, approximately 1,830,000 infants are eligible for WIC food packages from the USDA. By including peanut products in WIC Food Packages I and II, we can potentially prevent over 310,000 new cases of peanut allergy among children in the U.S. over the next decade. This scientifically proven intervention is a cost-effective way to lower the substantial burden that peanut allergy places on individuals, families, and the healthcare system. I urge you to request the inclusion of Section 772 of H.R. 9027 in the final FY 2025 USDA appropriations bill to ensure peanut-containing foods are provided through the WIC program and promote early allergen introduction.