WIC covers specific foods in each food category, not everything at the grocery store

WIC pays for milk, cheese, eggs, beans, peanut butter, cereal, bread, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula or baby food — but only certain brands and sizes in each category. You cannot use WIC to buy meat, prepared foods, snacks, or anything else. The program is designed around foods that are nutrient-dense and support child development, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Your state's WIC program publishes an approved foods list that changes a few times per year. The list tells you exactly which brands, package sizes, and types may have access to. For example, you might be able to buy Horizon organic milk but not store brand, or whole wheat bread but not white bread. Some states allow substitutions within a category — like canned beans instead of dried — and some do not.

When you check out, the cashier scans your WIC card or voucher. Items that are not on the approved list will not ring through. If something does not go through, it means it is not approved for your state right now, even if it looks like it should be.

Key Takeaways

  • WIC covers milk, cheese, eggs, beans, peanut butter, cereal, bread, fruits, vegetables, and infant formula — nothing else.
  • Your state publishes an approved foods list showing exact brands and package sizes that may have access to, and this list updates several times per year.
  • The cashier's register will reject items that are not on the approved list, so you cannot accidentally buy something ineligible.
  • Substitutions within a food category (like canned beans for dried beans) are allowed in some states but not others — check your state's rules.

How to find your state's approved foods list

Your state WIC program website has the current approved foods list, usually as a PDF you can download or print. Search "[your state] WIC approved foods list" to find it. The list is organized by food category and shows the brand name, package size, and sometimes a photo so you can match it at the store.

You can also ask the cashier or customer service desk at your WIC-authorized store to show you a printed copy. Many stores keep one at the register or customer service counter. If you cannot find the list online or in the store, call your local WIC office — they can tell you over the phone which brands and sizes are approved right now.

Dairy: milk, yogurt, and cheese

WIC covers whole milk, low-fat milk, and fat-free milk in half-gallon or gallon sizes. Some states also cover lactose-free milk. You cannot buy flavored milk, chocolate milk, or milk alternatives like almond or oat milk with WIC, even if they are fortified.

Cheese is usually limited to specific types — often cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack — in 8-ounce or 16-ounce blocks or shredded packages. Pre-sliced cheese, cheese spreads, and flavored cheese are typically not approved. Yogurt, when covered, is usually plain yogurt without added sugar or fruit.

Protein: eggs, beans, and peanut butter

Eggs are covered as a dozen-count carton, usually any size or brand. Dried beans and canned beans are both approved in most states, though some limit you to one or the other. Peanut butter is usually creamy or chunky, in jars of a specific size range — typically 16 to 18 ounces.

Some states also cover canned fish like tuna or salmon, but this varies. Check your state's list to see if fish is included. Nuts, seeds, and meat are not covered by WIC.

Grains and bread

WIC covers whole wheat bread, whole grain bread, and sometimes white bread, but only specific brands and loaf sizes. Most programs require whole grain options when available. Cereal is approved in many varieties, but usually only certain brands and box sizes — the list will specify which ones.

Brown rice, white rice, and oatmeal are often covered, though availability depends on your state. Tortillas, pasta, and crackers may be approved in some states but not others. Always check your state's list before buying.

Fruits and vegetables

WIC covers fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables with no added sugar or salt. Fresh produce like apples, bananas, carrots, and broccoli are approved, but the specific items and quantities vary by state. Some states give you a dollar amount to spend on produce; others list specific items and sizes.

Canned and frozen options must have no added sugar, sodium, or sauces. Fruit juice is not covered. If you are unsure whether a specific produce item or brand is approved, check your state's list or ask at the register.

Infant formula and baby food

WIC covers iron-fortified infant formula in powder, concentrate, or ready-to-feed form. The approved brands and sizes are listed on your state's approved foods list. You cannot use WIC to buy formula that is not iron-fortified, even if it is otherwise similar.

Baby food — both fruits and vegetables — is covered in jars or pouches with no added sugar or salt. Meat-based baby food is usually approved. Once your child turns one year old, they move to the regular food categories (milk, cheese, eggs, beans, bread, cereal, fruits, and vegetables) instead of formula and baby food.

What is not covered by WIC

WIC does not cover meat, poultry, fish (in most states), prepared foods, snacks, candy, soda, coffee, tea, spices, oils, butter, or household items. You also cannot use WIC for vitamins, supplements, or over-the-counter medications. Hot foods and foods from the deli counter are not may be able to access.

If you need items that WIC does not cover, you will need to buy them with your own money or other assistance programs. Some families combine WIC with SNAP (food stamps) to cover a wider range of foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use WIC at any grocery store?

No. WIC only works at stores that are authorized to accept it. Your WIC office will give you a list of authorized stores in your area, or you can search online using your state's WIC program website. Not all grocery stores, farmers markets, or convenience stores accept WIC.

What happens if I buy something that is not on the approved list?

The register will reject it and it will not ring through. You can either put it back or pay for it with your own money. The cashier cannot override the system to let you use WIC for unapproved items.

Do I have to buy the exact brand on the approved list?

Yes. If the list says Horizon milk, you cannot substitute store brand milk. The program specifies brands because it has negotiated prices with those manufacturers. Some states allow you to choose between two or three approved brands in a category, but you cannot pick a different brand than what is listed.

Can I use WIC to buy organic or specialty foods?

Only if they are on your state's approved foods list. Some states have added organic milk or organic produce options, but most do not. Check your state's current list to see what is available.

What if the store is out of an approved item?

You can ask the store when it will be back in stock, or you can go to a different authorized store. Some WIC programs allow substitutions if an approved item is not available — for example, buying canned beans instead of dried beans — but you need to check your state's policy first.