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Committee considers HB327 to require folic-acid fortification of corn masa flour
Summary
HB327 would require folic-acid fortification of corn masa flour sold or used in Delaware to reduce neural-tube defects among populations that rely on those foods; pediatric providers and neurosurgeons told the committee the measure is evidence-based and cost-effective.
Chair Pinckney told the committee HB327 would require fortification of corn masa flour with folic acid to prevent neural-tube defects, noting that prior fortification of enriched cereal grains reduced defects nationally. "HB 3 37 is about giving Delaware families confidence that when a newborn faces the most serious medical challenge, the right level of care is clearly defined, consistently staffed, and immediately available," the chair said while framing the bill as a prevention and equity measure.
Supporters including Nemours Children's Health and pediatric neurosurgeons testified in favor. Kristen Dwyer (Nemours) said the bill addresses a clear prevention gap for communities relying on corn-masa products. Dr. Hassan Akbari, a pediatric neurosurgeon participating virtually, described lifetime medical costs for spina bifida as high and told the committee that fortification is a cost-effective prevention strategy.
Proponents cited research showing folic-acid fortification has historically reduced neural-tube defects and argued HB327 would close a gap that has left some populations less protected.
Committee members did not record opposition in the transcript and public testimony was uniformly supportive of the fortification requirement.
