WIC Food Package

Background: Revisions in the WIC Food Package

Interim Rule: Revisions in the WIC Food Packages
Published December 6, 2007

On December 6, 2007, an interim final rule revising the WIC food packages was published in the Federal Register. The WIC food packages are changing to better meet the nutritional needs of WIC participants. The new food packages align with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and infant feeding practice guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics. WIC foods are intended to "supplement" participants’ food intake and should be consumed along with other wholesome foods needed for a balanced diet.

The changes will be phased in between February 2008 and August 2009 by WIC State agencies.  State agencies will determine their specific implementation timeframe of the new food packages based on the State assessment of changes required to its management information system, the training needs of staff, vendors and participants, and development of a new State food list.

Manufacturer’s Frequently Asked Questions

12/06/07 - The information below will be updated in the near future to reflect the new food package changes.

What are the Federal regulatory requirements for WIC-Eligible foods?

How do I get a food evaluated for WIC eligibility?

How do I get a food added to the WIC food packages?

What are the WIC food packages and maximum monthly allowances?

Frequently Asked WIC Food Package Questions

12/06/07 - The information below will be updated in the near future to reflect the new food package changes.

General Questions

• How were the WIC-eligible foods chosen for the program?

• Is there a list of all WIC-eligible foods available?

• Are WIC food packages consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans to reduce the amounts of fat, cholesterol, and sodium in the diet?

• Are organic foods WIC-eligible?

• How does the WIC food package help participants who have food allergies/intolerances?

Infant Formula Questions

• Is low-iron formula WIC-eligible?

• Are WIC participants able to choose the brand of formula to feed their infants?

• If a WIC participant has a special dietary need, what does WIC require to receive a special formula or medical food?

• Where can I find more information about infant formula and/or report a problem or illness caused by an infant formula?

Milk Questions

• Are soy and rice beverages WIC-eligible?

• Is chocolate milk WIC-eligible?

• Is yogurt WIC-eligible

Juice Questions

• Are fruit drinks fortified with vitamin C WIC-eligible?

• Is there a list of all approved juices for use in WIC?

• Is calcium-fortified juice WIC-eligible?

• How do you determine if a juice meets the Vitamin C requirement by using the Daily Value?

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