WIC and Retail Grocery Stores

Maine WIC authorizes hundreds of stores around the state to accept WIC benefits for specified food items.Grocers that have been authorized by the WIC Program are referred to as WIC authorized vendors. WIC authorized vendors are a vital contributor to the WIC Program by helping to provide nutritious foods to women, infants and children within their community.

 

Find WIC Stores Find a Farm Stand or Farmers Market

 

Changes to WIC

Important WIC Program Updates – Effective June 1, 2025

The USDA is updating the WIC food packages to better reflect current nutrition science and offer more flexibility for participants. These changes will go into effect starting June 1, 2025.

Key Updates to WIC Food Packages

  • Expanded fluid milk options — Includes cow’s milk, soy, lactose-free, goat's milk and more
  • Increased fruit and vegetable benefits, now including fresh herbs
  • More whole grain options — Additional cereals, whole grain pasta, rice, bread, and tortillas
  • New offerings — Plant-based cheese and yogurt, alternative nut and seed butters
  • Less juice, more fruits and vegetables, in line with updated dietary guidelines
  • More families receiving fish — Be prepared for a potential increase in sales

Store Action Required
To ensure a smooth transition, please take the following steps now. There will be significant updates to the Approved Product List (APL) in May 2025.

  1. Ensure your POS system downloads the latest WIC APL file daily
    • If a UPC is not in the APL, it will not scan at checkout
    • Contact your POS provider if you are unsure about your download settings
  2. Review and update produce mapping, including new items like fresh herbs
    • This may be managed at the store or corporate level
  3. Update shelf tags/markers, if applicable
  4. (Optional) Post the following notice at your main entrance:
    Dear Maine WIC Customer,
    We appreciate your patience and understanding during the upcoming WIC Food Package transition. We’re working hard to ensure everything goes smoothly and appreciate your support. Thank you for bearing with us!
    To learn more, visit Maine.gov/WIC

Important Reminders

  • Significant APL updates coming May 2025
  • Food package transition will occur May 31 – June 1
    • WIC participants are encouraged to avoid shopping during this period
    • Participants will receive a text alert when their updated package is available
  • Monitor stock levels for produce, whole grains, and fish to meet potential increased demand

If you have any questions regarding the APL file or produce mapping process, please reach out to your POS provider directly.

Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) July 1st to Oct 31st

The FMNP is a program of the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Services WIC program. The focus of the program is to increase the use of fresh, unprocessed, locally grown fruits and vegetables by WIC participants.

July 1st to Oct 31st you may notice FMNP CVB (Cash Value Benefits) on customer’s WIC balance inquiries. WIC customers are to redeem benefits with certified ME WIC farmers only.
The Fruits & Vegetables CVBare redeemable at ME WIC authorized stores and ME WIC certified farmers.


Help Make Our Program Better

WIC vendors play an important role assisting clients to obtain appropriate WIC foods. We value your input and suggestions. Contact Us.