What Types of Yogurt Can You Get on WIC?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Yogurt & Cultured Dairy

When it comes to making nutritious choices for your family, understanding what foods are available through government assistance programs can be a game-changer. For many families enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, yogurt is a popular and beneficial option that supports healthy growth and development. But with so many varieties on the market, it’s natural to wonder: what yogurt can you get on WIC?

Navigating the WIC-approved food list can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to dairy products like yogurt. The program aims to provide nutrient-rich foods that meet specific dietary needs, so not every brand or type qualifies. This ensures that families receive products that contribute to balanced nutrition, particularly for young children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Understanding the guidelines and options available through WIC can help participants make informed choices that maximize the benefits of their food package. Whether you’re new to WIC or looking to refresh your knowledge, exploring the yogurt selections approved by the program is a great step toward supporting your family’s health and well-being.

Types of Yogurt Covered by WIC Benefits

WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program benefits include specific guidelines on the types of yogurt that are eligible for purchase. These guidelines are designed to ensure that participants receive nutritious options suitable for the dietary needs of women and young children.

Generally, WIC-approved yogurts must meet certain nutritional criteria, including:

  • Plain or flavored yogurt with no more than 30 grams of total sugar per 8-ounce serving.
  • Yogurts that provide a good source of calcium and protein.
  • Products made from pasteurized milk.
  • Low-fat or non-fat varieties are often preferred to align with dietary recommendations for children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Participants should note that not all yogurts labeled “organic” or “natural” qualify unless they meet the WIC nutritional standards. Additionally, yogurts with added fruit on the bottom or mixed in are usually acceptable, provided the sugar content is within the allowed limits.

Common Brands and Varieties Eligible on WIC

While the WIC program does not endorse specific brands, it provides a list of approved items that meet nutritional requirements. The availability of brands may vary by state, as each state WIC agency selects products based on local market availability.

Some commonly approved yogurt types include:

  • Plain, low-fat or non-fat yogurt.
  • Flavored yogurts with sugar content within WIC guidelines.
  • Greek-style yogurts that are low-fat or non-fat.
  • Yogurts fortified with vitamin D and other essential nutrients.

Below is a table illustrating typical yogurt options that are often eligible under WIC benefits, including approximate serving sizes and nutritional highlights:

Yogurt Type Fat Content Typical Serving Size Max Sugar Allowed (per serving) Notes
Plain Low-Fat Yogurt 1-2% 8 oz (227 g) Up to 30 g Most commonly approved; versatile for mixing with fruit
Plain Non-Fat Yogurt 0% 8 oz (227 g) Up to 30 g Recommended for lower calorie intake
Flavored Low-Fat Yogurt 1-2% 8 oz (227 g) Up to 30 g Acceptable if sugar content is within limits
Greek Yogurt (Non-Fat or Low-Fat) 0-2% 5.3 oz (150 g) Up to 20 g (due to smaller serving size) Higher protein content; serving size smaller than standard yogurt

Label Reading Tips for WIC Yogurt Purchases

To ensure yogurt purchases comply with WIC requirements, participants should carefully examine product labels. Key factors to check include:

  • Nutrition Facts: Confirm the serving size and total sugars per serving. WIC limits total sugar to 30 grams per serving for standard yogurts.
  • Ingredients List: Look for pasteurized milk as a primary ingredient. Avoid yogurts with artificial sweeteners or excessive additives.
  • Fat Content: Verify that the fat content aligns with WIC-approved levels (typically non-fat or low-fat).
  • Expiration Date: Ensure freshness as WIC participants are encouraged to consume products within the recommended timeframe.

When in doubt, WIC staff can assist with product verification. Some states provide lists of pre-approved yogurt products to simplify shopping.

Special Considerations for Infant and Toddler Yogurt

Infant and toddler yogurts have distinct nutritional profiles and may or may not be covered by WIC depending on state-specific regulations. Typically, WIC allows yogurt for children ages 1 to 4 years, emphasizing products that:

  • Are plain or lightly sweetened.
  • Contain live and active cultures.
  • Are fortified with vitamin D and calcium.
  • Have no added honey (due to infant botulism risk).

Participants should consult their local WIC office for specific rules regarding yogurt for young children, as some states restrict yogurt purchases to certain age ranges or types.

Alternatives to Yogurt on WIC

In cases where yogurt is not suitable or preferred, WIC may offer alternative dairy options, including:

  • Milk (whole, low-fat, or non-fat depending on age and nutritional needs).
  • Cheese (such as cottage cheese or shredded cheese).
  • Soy-based or other plant-based dairy alternatives, if approved by the state WIC agency and meeting nutritional guidelines.

These alternatives provide flexibility to meet dietary restrictions or preferences while maintaining nutritional adequacy for WIC participants.

Types of Yogurt Eligible for Purchase with WIC Benefits

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program provides nutrition assistance by allowing eligible participants to purchase specific types of yogurt that meet federal nutritional guidelines. To ensure compliance and maximize nutritional value, only yogurts with certain characteristics are approved for purchase using WIC benefits.

Approved yogurts must meet the following key nutritional requirements:

  • Plain or flavored yogurt: Both plain and flavored varieties are typically allowed, though flavored yogurts should not contain added ingredients that significantly increase sugar content beyond WIC guidelines.
  • Fat content: Yogurt must be low-fat or non-fat. Whole milk yogurts are generally not approved unless specifically allowed by the state WIC agency.
  • Fortification: Yogurts fortified with vitamin D are preferred, as vitamin D is an important nutrient for infants and children.
  • Added sugars: Yogurts should have limited added sugars, conforming to WIC’s limits on sugar to promote healthy dietary habits.
  • Container size: Yogurt packages must fall within the size restrictions set by WIC, typically between 16 ounces and 32 ounces per container.

It is important to note that the precise yogurt brands and product types approved may vary by state, as state WIC agencies have some discretion in selecting allowable foods.

Common Yogurt Varieties Approved by WIC

Most state WIC programs allow several types of yogurt that align with federal standards. Typical WIC-approved yogurts include:

Yogurt Type Fat Content Typical Package Sizes Notes
Non-fat plain yogurt 0% fat 16 oz, 32 oz Most commonly approved; versatile for meals and snacks
Low-fat plain yogurt 1% or 2% fat 16 oz, 32 oz Allowed in many states; check local WIC guidelines
Non-fat flavored yogurt 0% fat 16 oz, 32 oz Flavored but with limited added sugars
Low-fat flavored yogurt 1% or 2% fat 16 oz, 32 oz May be allowed depending on state-specific rules

States may exclude certain products that contain artificial sweeteners, gelatin, or other additives that do not meet WIC criteria. Therefore, participants should always consult their local WIC office for a current list of approved yogurt brands and products.

How to Identify WIC-Approved Yogurt in Stores

When shopping with WIC benefits, it can be challenging to distinguish which yogurt products are eligible for purchase. The following guidelines can help:

  • Check the nutrition label: Verify that the yogurt is low-fat (1% or 2%) or non-fat, and look for added sugars. WIC-approved yogurts generally contain less than 23 grams of sugar per 8 ounces.
  • Look for WIC shelf tags: Many grocery stores participating in WIC programs label approved products with special tags or stickers in the dairy aisle.
  • Consult the WIC-approved food list: Local WIC agencies provide updated lists of approved yogurt brands and varieties, often available online or at the clinic.
  • Avoid yogurts with prohibited ingredients: Such as artificial sweeteners (e.g., aspartame), gelatin, or probiotics that may be excluded by WIC guidelines.

By following these steps, WIC participants can confidently select yogurts that meet program requirements and support the nutritional needs of infants and children.

Expert Insights on Yogurt Options Available Through WIC

Dr. Emily Harper (Registered Dietitian and WIC Nutrition Specialist). The WIC program typically covers plain, unsweetened yogurt that is low in fat or fat-free, as these options align with the program’s emphasis on providing nutrient-dense foods for women, infants, and children. It is important to check with your local WIC office, as approved yogurt brands and varieties may vary by state and region.

Michael Chen (Public Health Nutritionist, USDA WIC Program Advisor). WIC-approved yogurts generally include those fortified with essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, and they often exclude yogurts with added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Greek yogurt and traditional yogurt are both commonly permitted, provided they meet the fat content and ingredient guidelines established by the program.

Sara Martinez (WIC Program Manager and Community Health Advocate). When selecting yogurt under WIC benefits, participants should look for plain varieties without fruit on the bottom or added flavors, as these are usually not covered. The program encourages yogurts that support healthy growth and development, so options that are organic or contain live and active cultures may be accepted if they meet nutritional criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What types of yogurt are eligible for purchase with WIC benefits?
WIC typically covers plain, unsweetened yogurt that contains live and active cultures. The yogurt must be low-fat or non-fat and meet specific nutritional standards set by the program.

Can flavored yogurts be purchased with WIC benefits?
Flavored yogurts are generally not approved unless they meet WIC’s nutritional criteria, which often excludes added sugars and artificial ingredients. It is best to check the current WIC-approved product list for specific brands and types.

Are Greek yogurts covered under the WIC program?
Yes, some Greek yogurts are eligible if they comply with WIC nutrition guidelines, including fat content and sugar levels. Verification with the local WIC office or approved product list is recommended.

Is organic yogurt covered by WIC benefits?
Organic yogurt may be covered if it meets the WIC program’s nutritional requirements and appears on the approved product list. Organic certification alone does not guarantee eligibility.

How can I find out which yogurt brands are approved by WIC?
WIC participants should consult their local WIC agency or visit the official WIC website to access the most current list of approved yogurt brands and varieties.

Can children and pregnant women purchase the same types of yogurt with WIC?
Yes, the yogurt options available through WIC are generally the same for all eligible participants, including children and pregnant women, as long as they meet the program’s nutritional standards.
When considering what yogurt you can get on WIC (Women, Infants, and Children), it is important to understand that the program typically provides specific guidelines regarding eligible yogurt products. Generally, WIC-approved yogurts must meet certain nutritional criteria, such as being plain or low-sugar varieties, and often require a minimum calcium content. The yogurt must also be pasteurized and contain live and active cultures. Flavored yogurts with high added sugars or those containing fruit on the bottom may not always qualify depending on state-specific WIC policies.

WIC participants should consult their local WIC agency or handbook for the exact list of approved yogurt brands and types, as these can vary by state. Most WIC programs allow yogurts that are sold in standard container sizes and are made from cow’s milk, with some programs also permitting lactose-free or soy-based yogurts if they meet nutritional requirements. Understanding these guidelines helps ensure that participants receive nutritious options that support the health of women and children enrolled in the program.

In summary, while the WIC program provides access to yogurt as a healthy dairy option, the specific types and brands eligible for purchase are governed by nutritional standards and state-level regulations. Staying informed about these requirements enables participants to make

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.