Rates of ever breastfed children are rising nationally but the increase is not associated with changes in WIC's new food package
Compared with nonparticipants, fewer WIC infants were breastfed and consumed any vegetable but more consumed 100% juice. Fewer WIC toddlers and preschoolers consumed any fruit vs nonparticipants. The WIC toddlers were more likely to consume any sweet vs nonparticipants, especially sugar-sweetened beverages.
WIC participants consumed more cereals while on WIC and consumed more WIC approved brands. Once they left the program, they still tended to consume WIC approved cereal brands
The review committee targeted amounts of food, specifications for foods and additional substitutions of options for foods. They recommended reducing the quantities of items supplied in more than supplemental forms, increasing foods that were under consumed (FNV) and adjusted criteria to include whole grains while reducing added sugar consumption. Additional options were added for vegan participants.
WIC participants had the greatest inadequate nutrient intake for vitamin E and fiber, followed by magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin C and calcium
Compared to non-WIC participants, children living in a household currently receiving WIC benefits children consumed nearly double the amount of red and orange vegetables (0.04), and significantly fewer teaspoons of added sugars (15 vs. 18 tsp, p=0.002) after controlling for age, sex, race, and household income.
There were significant differences in availability and variability scores of healthy organic foods between high- and low-income neighborhood stores. Organic food items, specifically 15% fat content ground beef, peanut butter, apple juice, and eggs were priced significantly higher than conventional items (p < 0.05). Pricing of organic foods varied and no significant pricing trends were noted between neighborhood income levels.
There has been an increase in healthful food after the revised food packages became available. Additionally, results show that the new food packages have an impact on healthier food intake as well, specifically whole grains, lower fat milk, and fruits and vegetables.
WIC vouchers change purchasing decisions consistent with the nutritional guidelines of the program. However, we find that households exposed longer to the revised package are generally not more likely to continue to purchase these items after eligibility ends.
One in five U.S. households with children is food insecure with unreliable or inconsistent access to adequate nutrition. Malnutrition and food insecurity can have profound effects on a child’s health, […]
