Strengthening Protections for Children with Food Allergies Act Introduced
September 17, 2026
The Strengthening Protections for Children with Food Allergies Act (H.R. 10228) has been introduced in Congress by Representatives Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA) and Doris Matsui (D-CA). The legislation would strengthen food allergy training requirements across federal child nutrition programs and expand food allergy education and outreach for families participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Why It Matters
Food allergies affect millions of children and can have serious, life-threatening consequences if not properly managed. Child nutrition professionals play an essential role in ensuring that children receive safe meals and that staff are prepared to prevent, recognize, and respond to allergic reactions.
This legislation would improve food allergy training, increase access to educational resources, and support families navigating food allergies through federal nutrition programs. It would also ensure that training and educational materials are available in multiple languages and accessible formats.
CACFP Provisions
The Strengthening Protections for Children with Food Allergies Act would expand the availability of food allergy training to personnel working in several federal child nutrition programs, including the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP).
Key provisions include:
- Enhancing food allergy training requirements to include best practices for:
- Preventing allergic reactions
- Recognizing and responding to food-related allergic reactions
- Administering epinephrine during severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis
- Communicating allergen information in menus, food products, and recipes
- Preventing cross-contact
- Providing appropriate food substitutions for children with food allergies
- Making training available in:
- Relevant languages other than English for individuals with limited English proficiency
- Alternative formats for individuals with disabilities
- Expands access to training beyond school meal programs to personnel participating in:
- CACFP
- The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP)
- The Special Milk Program
The Act would authorize $1 million annually from FY 2027 through FY 2031 to support implementation of the enhanced training requirements.
For questions about this legislation, contact policy@cacfp.org.