Thanksgiving surprise: discover if wic covers cranberry sauce for your holiday feast
What To Know
- This means that WIC participants can use their benefits to purchase cranberry sauce, making it an affordable and nutritious option for families during the holiday season.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
- It is a great way for WIC participants to enjoy a healthy holiday season while supporting their nutritional needs.
Yes, cranberry sauce is covered by the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). This means that WIC participants can use their benefits to purchase cranberry sauce, making it an affordable and nutritious option for families during the holiday season.
Benefits of Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that supports immunity and skin health.
- Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
- Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.
- Antioxidants: Protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
WIC Eligibility and Cranberry Sauce
To qualify for WIC, participants must meet certain income and nutritional risk criteria. WIC provides a variety of food assistance benefits, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products. Cranberry sauce is included in the fruit category.
How to Purchase Cranberry Sauce with WIC
WIC participants can purchase cranberry sauce at authorized WIC grocery stores. To use WIC benefits, participants will need to present their WIC card at the checkout counter. The store will then deduct the cost of the cranberry sauce from their WIC balance.
Types of Cranberry Sauce Covered by WIC
WIC covers a variety of cranberry sauce options, including:
- Canned cranberry sauce: Whole or jellied
- Frozen cranberry sauce: Whole or sweetened
- Fresh cranberries: To make homemade cranberry sauce
Homemade Cranberry Sauce for WIC Participants
Participants can also make their own cranberry sauce using fresh cranberries. This allows them to control the ingredients and sugar content. To make homemade cranberry sauce, simply combine:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened.
Tips for WIC Participants
- Check with your local WIC office for specific guidelines on purchasing cranberry sauce.
- Compare prices at different authorized WIC grocery stores to find the best deals.
- Use cranberry sauce as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or pancakes.
- Add cranberry sauce to baked goods for a festive twist.
The Bottom Line: Enjoy Cranberry Sauce with WIC
Cranberry sauce is a delicious and nutritious treat that is covered by WIC. It is a great way for WIC participants to enjoy a healthy holiday season while supporting their nutritional needs.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use my WIC benefits to purchase organic cranberry sauce?
A: WIC benefits can only be used to purchase specific food items that meet USDA guidelines. Organic cranberry sauce may not be covered unless it is specifically listed on the WIC food list.
Q: How much cranberry sauce can I purchase with WIC?
A: The amount of cranberry sauce that WIC participants can purchase varies depending on their individual WIC plan. Participants should consult with their WIC nutritionist for specific guidance.
Q: Can I use WIC benefits to purchase cranberry juice?
A: No, cranberry juice is not covered by WIC. WIC benefits are only available for certain food items, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products.
