New WIC rules include more money for fruits and veggies. They also expand food choices
The federal program that helps pay for groceries for millions of low-income mothers, babies and young kids will soon emphasize more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as provide a wider choice of foods from different cultures.
The final rule changes for the program known as WIC were announced Tuesday by the Food and Nutrition Service, and will take effect within two years with some exceptions.
Last updated a decade ago, 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.
“It places a heavy emphasis on fruits and vegetables, which we think is an important component of a healthy diet,” Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said in an interview. “It’s designed to fill the nutrition gaps that are often in the diets of many of us.”
Related articles
Russian theater director and playwright go on trial over a play authorities say justifies terrorism
TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — A Russian court on Monday opened the trial of a theater director and a playw2024-05-21Horrifying moment gunmen open fire and massacre eight people at Mexican beer warehouse
At least eight people were executed after gunmen opened fire at a Mexican beer warehouse. Horrifying2024-05-21Doomsday prepper reveals what it is really like to live off
A doomsday prepper has revealed what it is really like to live off-grid in the desert after buying a2024-05-21Steve Buscemi punched in the face in "random" attack in NYC
NEW YORK (AP) — Actor Steve Buscemi is OK after he was punched in the face by a man on a New York Ci2024-05-21- A small group of NFL rookies from the 2024 class, including Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, sat down2024-05-21
Brewers' Rhys Hoskins leaves game with injury after hitting a second
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Milwaukee’s Rhys Hoskins left the Brewers’ game with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Mond2024-05-21
atest comment