WIC provides a variety of formulas to support the nutritional needs of infants and young children. The type of formula provided depends on the individual child’s age, health, and dietary needs. For example, newborns may receive a ready-to-feed formula, while older infants may transition to a concentrated formula that requires mixing with water. WIC staff can provide guidance on the appropriate formula for your child and offer support and resources to ensure successful feeding.
WIC-Eligible Formulas
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides a variety of nutrient-rich foods to eligible participants. One of the most important WIC benefits is the provision of infant formula to families who cannot afford to purchase it on their own.
There are two main types of WIC-eligible formulas: cow’s milk-based formulas and soy-based formulas.
Cow’s Milk-Based Formulas
Cow’s milk-based formulas are the most common type of formula provided by WIC.
They are made with cow’s milk that has been modified to make it more digestible for infants. Cow’s milk-based formulas are a good source of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
Some examples of WIC-eligible cow’s milk-based formulas include:
- Enfamil Infant
- Similac Advance
- Gerber Good Start Gentle
Soy-Based Formulas
Soy-based formulas are made with soy protein instead of cow’s milk protein.
They are a good option for infants who are lactose intolerant or allergic to cow’s milk.
Soy-based formulas are a good source of protein, fat, carbohydrates, and vitamins.
Some examples of WIC-eligible soy-based formulas include:
- Enfamil ProSobee
- Similac Isomil
- Gerber Good Start Soothe
Other WIC-Eligible Formulas
In addition to cow’s milk-based and soy-based formulas, WIC also provides other types of formulas for infants with special needs.
These formulas include:
- Hypoallergenic formulas
- Premature infant formulas
- Specialized formulas for infants with metabolic disorders
| Formula Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Cow’s Milk-Based Formulas | Enfamil Infant, Similac Advance, Gerber Good Start Gentle |
| Soy-Based Formulas | Enfamil ProSobee, Similac Isomil, Gerber Good Start Soothe |
| Other WIC-Eligible Formulas | Hypoallergenic formulas, Premature infant formulas, Specialized formulas for infants with metabolic disorders |
Infant Formula Coverage
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) provides nutritional assistance to low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, and to infants and children up to age 5. WIC provides a variety of foods, including infant formula, to eligible participants.
Infant Formula Coverage
WIC provides infant formula to eligible participants who are:
- Infants under 12 months of age
- Not breastfeeding or exclusively breastfeeding
- Medically or otherwise unable to breastfeed
WIC covers the following types of infant formula:
- Cow’s milk-based formula
- Soy-based formula
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Special formula (for infants with certain medical conditions)
The type of formula that WIC covers will depend on the infant’s individual needs.
WIC-Approved Infant Formula Brands
WIC has a list of approved infant formula brands. Participants can choose from any of the approved brands. The list of approved brands may vary from state to state.
| Brand | Type |
|---|---|
| Enfamil | Cow’s milk-based |
| Similac | Cow’s milk-based |
| Gerber Good Start | Cow’s milk-based |
| Nestlé NAN | Cow’s milk-based |
| Earth’s Best | Organic cow’s milk-based |
| Plum Organics | Organic cow’s milk-based |
| Happy Family Organics | Organic cow’s milk-based |
| Holle | Organic cow’s milk-based |
| Kendamil | Organic cow’s milk-based |
| Bobbie | Organic cow’s milk-based |
What Formula Can You Get With WIC
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is a federal program that provides food assistance to low-income women, infants, and children. WIC provides vouchers that can be used to purchase certain foods, including infant formula.
The type of formula that you can get with WIC varies depending on your state. However, all WIC-approved formulas meet the nutritional needs of infants.
WIC-Approved Formula Brands
- Abbott Similac
- Enfamil
- Gerber Good Start
- Mead Johnson Enfamil
- Nestlé Gerber
- Perrigo
In addition to these brands, WIC may also approve other brands of formula that meet certain nutritional criteria.
| Formula Type | WIC-Approved Brands |
|---|---|
| Cow’s milk-based formula | Abbott Similac, Enfamil, Gerber Good Start |
| Soy-based formula | Enfamil ProSobee, Gerber Good Start Soy |
| Hypoallergenic formula | Alimentum, Gerber HA |
If you are unsure which type of formula is right for your child, talk to your doctor or a WIC nutritionist.
Formula Reimbursement Rates
The amount of formula a family receives each month depends on the age of the child. The following are the reimbursement rates for WIC-approved formulas:
- Infants (0-12 months): 56 ounces of formula per day
- Toddlers (1-2 years): 32 ounces of formula per day
These rates are based on the average amount of formula that a child of that age consumes each day. However, families may request more or less formula if needed.
To receive formula benefits, families must meet certain income and nutritional requirements. Families can apply for WIC at their local health department or WIC clinic.
| Age of Child | Reimbursement Rate |
|---|---|
| 0-12 months | 56 ounces per day |
| 1-2 years | 32 ounces per day |
Well there you have it, folks! We’ve covered the basics of what formula you can get with WIC. I hope this article has been helpful in your quest to find the best nutrition for your little one. Remember, every baby is different, so it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best formula for your child. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit again later for more helpful tips and information.