New WIC Food Packages

Starting October 1, 2009, Nebraska WIC will offer new foods to participants.  The new food package helps reinforce key nutrition messages such as:

*Eat more fruits and vegetables

Cash value vouchers for fresh vegetables and fruits are provided year round.  Exclusively breast feeding women will receive $10.00 in vouchers-- all other women will receive $8.00 and children $6.00.

*Lower saturated fats and cholesterol intake

Only 1%, 2% or skim milk is available to children two years of age and older and women.

*Increase whole grains and fiber

WIC will now provide whole grain cereals, whole grain bread, canned or dried beans, brown rice, and cash value vouchers for vegetables and fruits.

*Drink less juice and sweetened beverages

*Babies are meant to be breastfed

Details of New Food Package

Milk: Whole milk for 1 year-old children, and lower fat (skim, 1%, or 2%) milk for women and children aged 2-5.

Whole Grains: 100% whole grain bread and brown rice are allowed.  The regulations also require that at least half of the breakfast cereals be made from whole grain.

Fruits and Vegetables: A seperate check will be issued to purchase fresh fruit and vegetables.  Two 64 ounce containers of Vitamin C-rich 100% juice is also available.

Protein: There will be a choice of dried beans, peas or lentils or canned beans or peanut butter.  One dozen eggs can also be purchased. 

Baby Food: At 6 months of age all infants will be provided with plain baby cereal and jars of baby vegetables and fruits.  Exclusively breastfed infants will also be provided jars of baby meats.