All families have different needs when it comes to feeding their children. No matter how you feed your child, it’s important they get all the nutrients needed to grow healthy and strong. Talking to your doctor is a great way to find the best feeding option for your family.

Many families rely on infant formula to feed their babies. Infant formula can provide important nutrients for your baby’s growth and development. Some FNS programs – including CACFP, SNAP, and WIC – provide access to formula to support healthy infant development. USDA is committed to ensuring that FNS program participants always have access to the formula they need.

WIC state agencies provide infant formula for mothers who choose to use this feeding method. Individuals participating in the WIC program receive different food packages based on their needs. Participants are prescribed one of seven types of food packages based on life stage, breastfeeding status, and special dietary needs.

Healthy, full-term infants receive routine formulas. These formulas may contain cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or soy. WIC state agencies are required by law to have competitively bid infant formula rebate contracts with infant formula manufacturers. WIC infant formula rebates are critical in making sure there is enough funding to serve every eligible infant, child, and pregnant, postpartum or breastfeeding women.

Infants with specific metabolic needs such as inborn errors of metabolism, low birth weights, or other unusual medical or dietary problems may receive specialty formulas. Some of these formulas are not available in retail settings and may be prescribed by a physician.

If you are a WIC program participant with questions about your infant formula benefits, contact your WIC state agency.