If you’re a WIC participant and need to feed your baby formula, you’ll need to be prepared to do so. WIC will provide you with the formula, but you’ll need to bring your own bottles, nipples, and other supplies. You’ll also need to know how to prepare and store the formula safely. WIC can provide you with resources and support to help you get ready to feed formula. They can also help you find a breastfeeding support group or other resources in your community.
**Can You Get Ready-to-Feed Formula on WIC?**
**WIC Formula Requirements**
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides eligible families with food assistance, including formula for infants. WIC has specific requirements for the types of formula that are covered:
* **Must be iron-fortified:** Formula must contain at least 12 mg of iron per quart.
* **Must meet FDA standards:** Formula must meet the nutritional requirements set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
* **Must be a specific brand and type:** WIC has contracts with specific formula manufacturers and requires families to use those brands and types.
**Ready-to-Feed Formula Availability on WIC**
Yes, WIC does cover ready-to-feed (RTF) formula. RTF formula is fully prepared and can be given to infants directly from the bottle. It is a convenient option for busy parents.
**Benefits of Ready-to-Feed Formula**
* **Convenience:** No need to measure or mix powder.
* **Sterilization:** Bottles are pre-sterilised, reducing the risk of contamination.
* **Shelf life:** RTF formula has a longer shelf life than powdered formula.
**Table of WIC-Approved Ready-to-Feed Formula Brands**
| Brand | Type |
|—|—|
| Enfamil® | ProSobee® |
| Similac® | Sensitive® |
| Gerber® | Good Start® |
| Earth’s Best® | Organic Soy |
| Parent’s Choice® | Advantage® |
**Note:** Availability of brands and types may vary by state or WIC agency.
**Conclusion**
Yes, you can get ready-to-feed formula on WIC. WIC has specific formula requirements and contracts with certain formula manufacturers. Parents can choose from a variety of WIC-approved RTF formula brands to meet their infant’s nutritional needs.
Preparing Formula for WIC
Preparing formula for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your baby’s formula is properly prepared:
- Wash your hands: Before handling formula or feeding equipment, always wash your hands with soap and water to prevent contamination.
- Sterilize bottles and nipples: Before each use, sterilize bottles and nipples by boiling them in water for 5 minutes or using a dishwasher’s sanitize cycle.
- Boil water: Bring water in a kettle or pot to a full rolling boil. Allow the water to cool for 5 minutes before adding it to the formula.
- Measure the formula: Use a clean spoon or scoop to measure the correct amount of formula powder into a sterilized bottle.
- Add cooled water: Add the cooled boiled water to the bottle until it reaches the desired level indicated on the formula container.
- Shake well: Close the bottle and shake it vigorously until the formula is completely dissolved and there are no lumps.
- Test the temperature: Before feeding your baby, test the temperature of the formula by putting a few drops on your wrist. It should feel warm to the touch but not hot.
Avoid Contaminating Formula
- Do not use old or opened containers of formula.
- Never add extra water to the formula powder.
- Discard any unused formula within 1 hour of preparation.
- Store prepared formula in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Formula Preparation Reference Table
| Formula Amount | Water Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 scoop | 2 ounces |
| 2 scoops | 4 ounces |
| 3 scoops | 6 ounces |
| 4 scoops | 8 ounces |
Benefits of Ready-to-Feed Formula
Ready-to-feed formula is a convenient option for parents who do not have time to prepare formula from powder or concentrate. It comes in pre-sterilized bottles or containers, so there is no need to worry about contamination.
- Convenience: Ready-to-feed formula is the most convenient option for parents, as it does not require any preparation.
- Pre-sterilized: Ready-to-feed formula comes in pre-sterilized bottles or containers, so there is no need to worry about contamination.
- Shelf-stable: Ready-to-feed formula has a longer shelf life than powder or concentrate formula, so it can be stored for longer periods of time.
- Easy to digest: Ready-to-feed formula is easier to digest than powder or concentrate formula, so it is less likely to cause gas or colic in babies.
| Type of Formula | Convenience | Pre-sterilized | Shelf-stable | Easy to digest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powder | Low | No | No | Yes |
| Concentrate | Medium | No | Yes | Yes |
| Ready-to-feed | High | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Cost Comparisons of Formula Options
The cost of formula can vary depending on the type of formula you choose, the size of the container, and the brand. Here is a general overview of the cost of different types of formula:
- Powdered formula: Powdered formula is the most affordable type of formula, costing around $0.20 per ounce.
- Concentrated liquid formula: Concentrated liquid formula is more expensive than powdered formula, costing around $0.25 per ounce.
- Ready-to-feed formula: Ready-to-feed formula is the most expensive type of formula, costing around $0.40 per ounce.
In addition to the cost of the formula itself, you will also need to factor in the cost of bottles, nipples, and other feeding supplies. If you are formula-feeding your baby for an extended period of time, the cost of formula can add up quickly.
Here is a table that compares the cost of different types of formula:
| Type of formula | Cost per ounce |
|---|---|
| Powdered formula | $0.20 |
| Concentrated liquid formula | $0.25 |
| Ready-to-feed formula | $0.40 |
If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider using powdered formula. Powdered formula is just as nutritious as liquid formula, and it is much more affordable. You can also save money by buying formula in bulk.
Well, there you have all the need-to-know details about using WIC to feed your precious little one formula. I hope this article has been helpful in clearing any doubts or providing you with valuable information. I’d like to thank you for taking the time to read it and invite you to visit again later for more helpful tips and updates on all things baby-related. Remember, we’re here to support you on your parenting journey, one formula bottle at a time.