Is Yoplait WIC Approved? A Comprehensive Guide to Eligibility

According to the USDA, WIC provides supplemental foods to nearly half of all infants born in the United States. Understanding which products qualify, including popular brands like Yoplait, can be confusing due to specific state guidelines and item restrictions.

Quick Summary

Some Yoplait yogurt products are WIC-approved, but eligibility depends on specific state guidelines and your individual food package benefits. Accepted varieties often include certain low-fat and nonfat options, like Go-Gurt multi-packs and 32oz containers of plain or vanilla yogurt. You must check your local state's WIC-approved food list for the most current information.

Key Points

• State-Specific Approval: Yoplait's WIC approval is not universal and varies by state based on local food lists and nutritional criteria.

• Check Your State's Guide: The most reliable way to confirm which Yoplait products are eligible is to check your state's WIC app or shopping guide.

• Eligible Yoplait Varieties: Specific Yoplait options, such as low-fat Go-Gurt multi-packs for kids and certain 32oz plain or vanilla yogurts, are commonly approved.

• Ineligible Yoplait Products: Yogurts with high sugar content, mix-ins, or specialized formulations like 'Whips' or organic varieties are often not approved.

• Look for Low-Fat/Nonfat: Most WIC-eligible yogurt must be either low-fat or nonfat, unless the benefits specify whole-fat yogurt for younger children.

• Seek Alternatives: If your preferred Yoplait product isn't covered, many store brands and other national brands offer WIC-approved alternatives that meet program standards.

Yoplait and WIC Eligibility: A State-by-State Breakdown

The short answer is that yes, some Yoplait products can be purchased with WIC benefits, but the specifics are determined by each state’s WIC agency. The approval status depends on a combination of factors, including the product's nutritional content, container size, and flavor. For example, many states approve low-fat or nonfat versions in 32-ounce containers, while others may authorize Go-Gurt multi-packs for children. It is crucial to consult your local WIC office or app for the most accurate and up-to-date list of approved items.

Types of Yoplait Products That May Be WIC Approved

It is common for states to limit eligible yogurts to plain or specific fruit flavors in standard containers, excluding those with added ingredients, excessive sugar, or special formulations.

• Go-Gurt Multi-packs: These are a common low-fat option approved for children in many states. Flavors and pack sizes can vary by state, so always check your local list. Pennsylvania's WIC program, for example, specifies approved flavors for Go-Gurt tubes.
• 32-ounce Plain or Vanilla: WIC often covers large, family-sized containers of plain or vanilla yogurt. This is a common allowance in states like Louisiana, which has authorized 32oz containers of certain Yoplait Greek Plain and Vanilla varieties. Washington State also includes certain Yoplait options on its 32oz approved list.
• Low-fat and Nonfat Options: The core requirement for most WIC yogurts is that they are either low-fat or nonfat. This generally excludes Yoplait Original varieties that contain higher fat content, though some states might make exceptions for specific types.

How to Verify Yoplait Products for Your State's WIC Program

To avoid any surprises at the checkout, follow these steps to confirm your eligibility:

1. Check Your State's WIC App: Many state WIC programs offer smartphone apps that can be used to scan product barcodes to determine eligibility. This is the most reliable method for real-time verification.
2. Consult Your WIC Shopping Guide: You should have received a physical or digital WIC Shopping Guide from your local agency. This guide lists all the brands, types, and sizes of foods you can purchase. Some guides specify UPC codes for precise identification.
3. Use Your State WIC Website: Many state health department websites provide printable PDFs of their approved food lists. Search for your state’s WIC program online to find this resource.
4. Look for the WIC Label: Some stores use special shelf tags or labels to indicate that an item is WIC-eligible. While helpful, it is not always a complete or up-to-date indicator.
5. Talk to Your Local WIC Staff: If you have any doubts, your WIC clinic staff are the best resource for clarifying what is covered by your specific food package.

Why Specific Yoplait Products are Sometimes Not Approved

Not all Yoplait products meet the strict nutritional requirements set by the USDA for the WIC program. Common reasons for rejection include:

• High Sugar Content: Products like Yoplait Whips and some Original flavors often contain more sugar than is permitted under WIC guidelines.
• Added Ingredients: Yogurts with mix-ins such as granola, candy pieces, or other toppings are generally not approved.
• Specialized Formulations: Organic or drinkable yogurts, or those with non-nutritive sweeteners, are typically excluded from WIC eligibility.
• Ineligible Fat Content: Unless specifically authorized for children over one, many states only approve low-fat or nonfat options, excluding full-fat Original or other whole-milk products.

Comparison Table: Yoplait Products and WIC Eligibility

Yoplait Product	Potential WIC Eligibility	Typical WIC Restrictions	Notes on Approval
Go-Gurt	Likely Approved	Specific flavors and multi-pack sizes (e.g., 8-pack, 16-pack).	Check for specific state allowances for children, as seen in Texas and Pennsylvania.
Greek Yogurt	Sometimes Approved	Plain or vanilla varieties in 32oz containers are sometimes authorized.	Certain states, like Louisiana, have authorized specific 32oz varieties of Yoplait Greek.
Original	Sometimes Approved	Usually restricted to specific low-fat flavors and sizes (e.g., 32oz).	Approval is state-dependent; California has authorized specific Original low-fat flavors.
Light	Sometimes Approved	Must be low-fat or nonfat, without non-nutritive sweeteners.	Eligibility is state-specific; must meet fat and sugar requirements.
Whips	Unlikely to be Approved	High sugar content and specialized formulation.	Typically excluded due to nutritional criteria.
Yoplait Kids Cups	Sometimes Approved	Certain multi-pack varieties, like those in Texas.	Approved for children aged 2-5 in some states, following specific size and fat content rules.

What to Do If Your Preferred Yoplait Isn't WIC Approved

If the specific Yoplait product you want is not authorized by your state, several other alternatives are available. The WIC program aims to provide healthy and accessible options, so you can often find approved store-brand or other national brand yogurts that meet the program's nutritional standards. Look for generic store brands or other listed manufacturers like Mountain High or Dannon, and ensure they meet the low-fat or nonfat and other criteria listed in your WIC shopping guide. Remember that WIC benefits are intended to supplement your food budget with nutritious choices, so sticking to the approved list is key to making the most of your benefits.

Conclusion

While some Yoplait products are indeed WIC approved, the eligibility is not universal and depends on your state's specific food list. Shoppers must verify their options by checking their state's WIC app or shopping guide for approved brands, sizes, and flavors. Common approved Yoplait varieties include certain low-fat Go-Gurt multi-packs for children and 32-ounce containers of plain or vanilla yogurt. By staying informed with your local WIC guidelines, you can navigate the grocery store with confidence and choose the right Yoplait products for your family.

Further Reading

For a general overview of the WIC program and food packages, visit the USDA's official site for details on program rules and updates(https://www.fns.usda.gov/wic).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all Yoplait yogurt WIC approved?

No, not all Yoplait yogurt is WIC approved. Eligibility depends on your state's WIC food list, and products must meet specific nutritional criteria regarding fat content, sugar levels, and size.

Are Yoplait Go-Gurt tubes WIC approved?

Yoplait Go-Gurt multi-packs are approved for children in many states, though eligibility varies by state and specific flavors. You must check your local WIC food list or app to confirm.

Are Yoplait Greek yogurts WIC approved?

Some Yoplait Greek yogurts, specifically certain plain or vanilla 32oz containers, are approved in some states, like Louisiana. Check your state's specific guidelines, as not all Greek yogurt is eligible.

Can I buy Yoplait Whips with my WIC benefits?

No, Yoplait Whips are typically not WIC approved due to their high sugar content and special formulation, which do not meet the nutritional requirements of the program.

How can I check if a specific Yoplait product is approved?

The best way to check is by using your state's WIC app, consulting your WIC shopping guide, or checking your state's WIC website for an official approved food list.

What happens if I try to buy a Yoplait yogurt that isn't on my WIC list?

If you try to buy a Yoplait product that is not WIC authorized, it will not be covered by your benefits at checkout, and you will need to pay for it out of pocket.

Can I get Yoplait Original with WIC?

Some low-fat varieties of Yoplait Original may be WIC approved in certain states, usually in larger 32oz containers. However, the higher fat versions are generally not eligible. Always confirm with your state's specific list.

Are Yoplait Light yogurts WIC approved?

Some Yoplait Light varieties can be WIC approved if they meet the specific low-fat or nonfat and sugar criteria set by your state. Products with non-nutritive sweeteners are typically not approved.