Türkiye’s Social Security Institution (SGK) reimbursed more than TL 3.1 billion in 2025 for specialized medical formula prescribed to infants aged 0–2 with cow’s milk protein allergy and multiple food allergies, Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Işıkhan announced.
Medical formula reimbursement for infants with cow’s milk protein allergy and multiple food allergies exceeded TL 3.1 billion in Türkiye during 2025, according to Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Işıkhan. The reimbursement program aims to ensure eligible infants have access to medically necessary nutritional products while reducing the financial burden on families.
Türkiye’s Social Security Institution (SGK) reimbursed more than TL 3.1 billion for specialized medical formula prescribed to infants aged 0–2 diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy and multiple food allergies during 2025, Labor and Social Security Minister Vedat Işıkhan announced.
According to the minister, the reimbursement covers specialized medical nutrition products prescribed under SGK eligibility criteria for infants who cannot safely consume standard infant formula because of medically diagnosed food allergies.
Reimbursement supports medically necessary nutrition
Cow’s milk protein allergy is among the most common food allergies during infancy and, in some cases, may occur alongside allergies to multiple foods. Depending on the clinical diagnosis, physicians may prescribe extensively hydrolyzed or amino acid-based formulas to ensure adequate nutrition while avoiding allergic reactions.
Health experts consider these specialized formulas an integral part of treatment rather than a routine nutritional supplement.
Reducing the financial burden on families
Because specialized medical formulas are often required for extended periods and can be significantly more expensive than standard infant formula, public reimbursement plays an important role in improving access to treatment.
Officials said the reimbursement program is intended to ensure eligible infants receive appropriate nutritional therapy without imposing excessive financial costs on families.
Early nutrition is critical
The first two years of life represent one of the most important periods for physical growth and brain development. Ensuring access to appropriate medical nutrition during this stage can help support healthy development in infants with food allergies and other medically diagnosed nutritional conditions.
Why It Matters
Medical formula reimbursement is an important component of pediatric healthcare policy for infants who depend on specialized nutrition because of medically confirmed food allergies. Public reimbursement helps ensure equitable access to essential nutritional treatment while reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs for affected families.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for medical formula reimbursement in Türkiye?
Eligible infants diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy or multiple food allergies may receive reimbursement when specialized formula is prescribed in accordance with SGK reimbursement criteria.
Why do some infants require specialized medical formula?
Standard infant formulas may trigger allergic reactions in infants with cow’s milk protein allergy or multiple food allergies. Specialized formulas provide appropriate nutrition while minimizing allergen exposure.
What types of formula are reimbursed?
Depending on the clinical diagnosis, reimbursement may include extensively hydrolyzed formulas or amino acid-based formulas prescribed by physicians.
Why is nutrition during the first two years so important?
The first two years are critical for growth, brain development, and immune system maturation. Appropriate nutrition during this period supports healthy development and long-term health outcomes.
Source: Anadolu Agency, Ministry of Labor and Social Security, Social Security Institution (SGK)
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