New WIC rules include more money for fruits, vegetables

The federal program that helps pay for groceries for millions of mothers, babies and young kids in families with lower incomes will soon emphasize more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as provide a wider choice of foods from different cultures (Source: “New WIC rules include more money for fruits and veggies. They also expand food choices,” Associated Press, April 9).
 
The final rule changes for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, commonly known as WIC, were announced Tuesday by the Food and Nutrition Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and will take effect within two years with some exceptions.
 
The new WIC rules make permanent a bump in monthly cash vouchers for fruits and vegetables — something first enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shoppers can also add canned fish, fresh herbs and lactose-free milk to their carts, among other changes. The voucher piece will take effect by June, officials said.
 
Food plans in the program are based on recommendations from the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine and the federal 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.