WIC Cereal Options: A Call to Action

The recent proposal by the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to eliminate culturally preferred, healthy breakfast cereals from the federal government's main nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has sparked outrage among low-income families who rely on this program. The petition above will be submitted to USDA as a comment for every signer, respectfully requesting that they protect the unique cultural eating patterns of all low-income families on WIC.

The aim is simple: to ensure that children have access to nutritious cereals that their parents can trust them to eat. Without options that cater to their cultural preferences, these kids may not receive the essential vitamins and minerals they need to grow up healthy. Iron-rich cereals are particularly crucial for childhood development, and eliminating already-approved nutritious options would disproportionately affect vulnerable communities of color.

The USDA's Equity Action Plan emphasizes the importance of considering cultural preferences when making changes to food categories. However, the proposed elimination of whole-grain cereals from WIC goes against this plan. The Child Nutrition Act requires the government to take these factors into account, but the USDA's proposal would deny poor women and children access to six of the most popular 10 cereals in states with diverse communities that prefer rice- and corn-based cereals.

By eliminating more than half of the healthy breakfast cereals in WIC, the USDA is essentially removing choices that matter. These families deserve better. They deserve access to nutritious cereals that their children will actually eat and enjoy. We urge you to join us in this fight by signing the petition and spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that our children receive the best possible start in life.

Take Action Today

Don't let the USDA take away the cereal options your family relies on. Sign the petition now and help us keep WIC's nutrition program inclusive and effective for all families. Share this article with friends and family to raise awareness about this important issue and join our call to action: protect WIC cereal options for a healthier future.

Wic cereal options