On October 1, 2009, the California WIC Program food packages underwent a number of changes. The changes include the addition of new allowable foods as well as changes in some of the current food items. These modifications align the WIC food packages with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and current infant feeding practice guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatrics as well as provide better promotion and support for the establishment of long-term breastfeeding and better accommodation of cultural food preferences.
Summary of WIC Food Packages:
Alignment with national dietary recommendations
- Increases fiber by adding:
- Fruits and vegetables; fresh, frozen or canned
- 100% whole wheat bread, corn and whole wheat tortillas, whole grain oats, brown rice, bulgur and barley
- Reduces saturated fat and cholesterol by decreasing amounts of:
- Milk (low-fat milk for women and children age 2 and over)
- Eggs
- Cheese
- Delays introduction of infant cereal
- Adds infant foods; including fruits, vegetables, and meats
- Eliminates juice for infants
Better promotion and support for the establishment of long-term breastfeeding
- Breast pumps and breastfeeding support provided, as needed
- For exclusively breastfeeding women:
- Increased amount of food
- Addition of salmon and sardines
- For exclusively breastfed infants
- Increased amounts of infant fruits and vegetables
- Addition of infant meats
Accommodate cultural food preferences
- Tofu and soy milk as an option for those who cannot tolerate dairy
Better accommodate special needs participants
- Supplemental foods in addition to formula