Nutrition: Foundations for Life

Answer:   False

While it is true that women who choose not to breastfeed get their formula from WIC,  the economic savings is limited.

WIC does not actually give out formula.

Families get vouchers for a limited amount of formula.  WIC families get 403 oz liquid concentrate of formula per month. This amount of formula when mixed correctly comes out to 806 oz or about 27 oz of formula/day. If the family decides to be economical and gets the 1 lb 9.7 oz can of powdered formula with their vouchers,  this should provide 950 ml of formula per month or exactly 32 oz. per day. (Four eight ounce bottles) This is EXACTLY how much formula a six month infant should consume. If the parents run out of formula they have to purchase it on their own.

There are other hidden costs of formula. 

• The average formula fed 6-month old has 2-3 stools per day, compared to the breastfed baby who may have one bowel movement every 2-3 days or even longer.  So, a bottle-fed baby will use about 80 more diapers per month, and more wipes as well. 

• Formula fed infants get upper respiratory and ear infections at a higher rate than breastfed infants and will require healthcare appointments,   Although the healthcare may be covered by health insurance, the parent may have to miss work; and if the parent is an hourly or day worker, this may result in lost wages.   
  note: In order for a child to be WIC eligible,  the family’s income can not be more than $655/week (i.e. 185% of the Federal poverty level for a family of four).  

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