Illinois expands WIC food options, adds culturally responsive choices for families

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (KBSI) — Illinois’ Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children has expanded its approved food offerings, allowing families to choose from a broader range of culturally responsive options aligned with updated nutrition science.

The changes took effect Feb. 25 and are intended to provide participants greater flexibility at the grocery store, according to the Illinois Department of Human Services.

New options include additional package sizes and foods such as corn masa flour, whole wheat English muffins and sardines. The department also adjusted quantities of certain items, reducing some and increasing others to better reflect current dietary guidance. Participants may now substitute certain items based on preference, including choosing beans or peanut butter instead of eggs.

“This update recognizes that WIC participants know what their families prefer,” said Stephanie Bess, associate director of the Division of Family and Community Services and WIC lead at the Illinois Department of Human Services. “These changes make it easier for them to select foods at the store that best suit their families’ needs.”

The WIC program supports low-income women, infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk by providing supplemental nutritious foods, nutrition education and referrals to health care and other services. Officials say it is one of the nation’s most cost-effective public health nutrition programs.

More than 175,000 Illinois residents receive WIC benefits each month on average. The program is available to individuals who are pregnant, postpartum or breastfeeding, as well as parents, guardians or caretakers of children under 5 who meet income and health eligibility requirements.

Participants receive a monthly food package that includes items such as milk, whole grains and plant-based proteins, along with a cash-value benefit for fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables.

More information about eligibility and enrollment is available on the Illinois Department of Human Services website.