Consumption Of Whole Grain Bread, Rice, Rises Under Revised WIC Program For Poor Families

Low-income families who rely on the federal WIC program have begun to choose healthier foods now that the vouchers include whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole grain cereals, according to a new study. Prior to the change, most of the bread and rice purchased by WIC’s low-income households – with pregnant women or children under five – were made from refined grains. After the change, whole grain bread purchases went from eight percent to 24 percent; brown rice purchases rose to 30 percent. The WIC program also includes a new monthly $10 voucher for fresh fruits and vegetables.