Illinois WIC Approved Foods
Food List & Approved Groceries
Illinois WIC Agency
Illinois WIC Food List
Illinois WIC maintains an Authorized Food List (AFL) published by the Illinois Department of Human Services. The current food list, effective February 2026, is available at dhs.state.il.us. The APL (Approved Product List) is updated regularly throughout the year — the static PDF version may not reflect the most recent additions, so check with your local WIC clinic for the latest approved brands and package sizes.
Illinois WIC Food Package Highlights
Milk: Illinois includes both cow's milk and soy milk as standard milk options. Approved soy milk brands are Silk, 8th Continent, and Bettergoods (plain or original, 64 oz). Ask your clinic if you have questions about milk substitution rules.
Whole grains: Illinois approves whole wheat bread, corn and whole wheat tortillas, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, bulgur, and oatmeal. Your monthly whole grain benefit is measured in ounces and you can mix and match approved grain products.
Tofu: Illinois WIC includes tofu as a standard protein option in food packages — check the current authorized food list for approved brands and package sizes.
Hot and cold breakfast cereals: Both hot cereals (like oatmeal) and cold cereals meeting the WIC nutrition criteria are approved. Check the authorized food list for approved brands — Illinois specifies particular brands and package sizes for cereals.
Canned fish: Available for breastfeeding women and children on Illinois WIC. Approved varieties are chunk light tuna, pink salmon, and sardines.
Fruits and vegetables CVB: Every participant receives a monthly Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables. The amount varies by participant category — check your Illinois WIC Family Shopping List for the current figure. Options without added sugar, salt, or sauces are eligible.
Farmers' Market Nutrition Program: Illinois participates in the seasonal WIC FMNP, which provides additional vouchers redeemable at participating farmers' markets for fresh, locally grown produce. Look for the WIC logo at Illinois farmers' markets during the summer and fall season.
Shopping for Illinois WIC
Illinois WIC EBT cards are accepted at authorized grocery retailers statewide. Illinois WIC is working to expand vendor presence in underserved rural areas — if you're in a rural county and having trouble finding a nearby WIC-authorized store, contact your local WIC clinic for assistance.
Online nutrition education is available through wichealth.org, which allows Illinois WIC participants to complete some nutrition education requirements remotely between clinic visits.
