Changes In SNAP Food Benefits Similar To WIC Introduced In Iowa

Changes in the SNAP Food Benefits that are similar to the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program has been introduced in Iowa. In this article, read and find out what these changes are and how they are similar to WIC!

WIC Foods [Photo: Oklahoma.gov]

According to Decker, the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program is intended to target certain nutritional deficiencies only. This means the list of eligible foods in WIC is more restrictive than in SNAP. Depending on the state in which the recipient lives, the annual list of approved food products also varies in brand, size, and flavor. If the bill gets passed, using the WIC’s food list would hinder the residents of Iowa to purchase staple foods such as fresh meat, white rice, and flour through SNAP.

In addition, to be able to change how the state of Iowa should administer SNAP, the state must also receive permission from the U.S. federal government. The state of Iowa must first request a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to be able to change the food list.

READ ALSO: Iowa’s Proposed SNAP Restrictions Spark Controversy And Criticism: Critics Call It An Attack On People’s Dignity

What is SNAP?

An article on the Benefits.gov states that the SNAP is the biggest nutrition assistance program by the federal government. SNAP was formerly known as the Food Stamp Program and is a fundamental part of the U.S.’ relief efforts against hunger. It intends to provide benefits to eligible individuals and families with low incomes through an Electronic Benefits Transfer card. This card is used like a debit card to purchase eligible food in authorized retail stores.

READ ALSO: WIC Program: A Lifeline For Low-Income Families In Need Of Healthy Nutrition