California WIC Approved Foods
Updated August 2026
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.
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.
Helpful Resources
California WIC Program
Contact information, benefits, and how the California WIC program works.
Learn more →California WIC Income Limits
See the current household income limits to qualify for California WIC benefits.
Learn more →How to Apply for California WIC
Step-by-step instructions, required documents, and what to expect at your California WIC appointment.
Learn more →WIC Approved Foods by Category
Browse WIC-covered foods nationally by category — milk, cereal, produce, and more — with typical quantities and shopping tips.
Learn more →Find a California WIC Clinic
Locate WIC clinic offices near you in California, with addresses and phone numbers by city.
Learn more →