California WIC Approved Foods
Once you're approved for California WIC, your benefits are loaded monthly onto a WIC card that works like a debit card at authorized stores. Here's what's covered, how to check whether a specific brand or item is approved, and how the cash-value benefit for fruits and vegetables works.
This site is an independent, non-government WIC directory and isn't affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by any state or federal government agency. Always verify details directly with the official agency before visiting or applying.
Quick Answer
California WIC covers the same national food categories as every state — milk, eggs, cereal, whole grains, fruits and vegetables (via a cash-value benefit), juice, beans, and infant formula — but the specific approved brands, sizes, and quantities are set by the California Department of Public Health. See the full California list below.
Approved WIC Foods in California
California WIC updated its approved food package to reflect current USDA nutrition guidance, expanding options for whole grains, proteins, and produce. The full current approved food list is available through the California WIC App (free on iOS and Android) and the WIC Shopping Guide at myfamily.wic.ca.gov, broken out by category — milk, cheese, eggs, yogurt, plant-based milk alternatives, tofu, juice, whole grains, peanut butter, beans, and more. Your local WIC agency can confirm exactly which items and brands are approved under your current benefits.
Food Package Updates
California WIC periodically updates its approved food list to reflect current nutrition science and USDA guidance. Check the California WIC App or the state portal for the most current list — items and approved brands can change with each update cycle. Update the California WIC App if you haven't recently, since approved items are reflected in the app's barcode scanner.
Farmers' Market Shopping
California WIC participants can use their California WIC Card at participating farmers' markets to purchase fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables — a meaningful benefit in a state with year-round produce availability. Use the farmers' market locator at myfamily.wic.ca.gov to find markets near you that accept the WIC Card.
Shopping Tips for California WIC
Use the California WIC App to scan barcodes at the store and instantly check whether a product is approved. Look for WIC shelf stickers for brand-specific items. Your Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for fruits and vegetables — $26 a month for children, $47 for pregnant or postpartum participants, and $52 for breastfeeding participants — can be used at authorized grocery stores and participating farmers' markets. Benefits do not roll over month to month, so use them before the end of each benefit period.
If an item won't scan as approved at checkout, check the brand and package size against the California WIC App or ask your local WIC office for the current Shopping Guide. You can also contact California WIC at wic@cdph.ca.gov for assistance.
California WIC Approved Food Questions
How much is the California WIC Cash Value Benefit for fruits and vegetables each month?
The monthly Cash Value Benefit is $26 for children, $47 for pregnant or postpartum participants, and $52 for breastfeeding participants. Benefits do not roll over from month to month, so use them before the end of each benefit period.
Can California WIC participants use their WIC Card at farmers' markets?
Yes. The California WIC Card is accepted at participating farmers' markets for fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables. Use the farmers' market locator at myfamily.wic.ca.gov to find markets near you that accept the WIC Card.
How do I check if a specific brand is approved under my California WIC benefits?
Use the California WIC App (free on iOS and Android) to scan barcodes in the store — approved items are updated in the app. You can also look for WIC shelf stickers for brand-specific items, or check the WIC Shopping Guide at myfamily.wic.ca.gov. If an item won't scan as approved, contact California WIC at wic@cdph.ca.gov for assistance.
Compare Other States
Approved foods, brands, and package sizes are set state by state. These share California's census region — useful if you're moving, or comparing how another state runs the same program.
Helpful Guides
What Is WIC?
An overview of the WIC program, who administers it, and how it works.
Learn more →WIC Eligibility
The four requirements to qualify for WIC — categorical status, income, nutritional risk, and residency.
Learn more →WIC vs SNAP
Compare who qualifies, what benefits are provided, and whether you can receive both programs.
Learn more →WIC Income Limits
See the current household income limits to qualify for WIC, and what counts as income.
Learn more →WIC Benefit Amounts
The exact dollar and quantity breakdown of the monthly WIC food package by participant category.
Learn more →WIC EBT Card
How to use your WIC EBT card at the store, check your balance, and what to do if it's declined.
Learn more →WIC Approved Foods
Browse WIC-covered foods by category, from milk and eggs to fruits, vegetables, and formula.
Learn more →Find a WIC Clinic
Search WIC clinic locations by state and city, with addresses and phone numbers.
Learn more →WIC Recertification
When your WIC certification expires, what to bring to your renewal appointment, and how to avoid a gap in benefits.
Learn more →