Starting May 1, 2023, you will be able to purchase one of the following powdered Enfamil formulas in the WIC-allowed 12 ounce can size depending on what is on your food benefits:

• Enfamil Infant (12.5 oz can)
• Enfamil Gentlease  (12.4 oz can)
• Enfamil Prosobee (12.9 oz can)
• Enfamil Reguline (12.4 oz can)
• Enfamil A.R.  (12.9 oz can)

This change will happen automatically for most families receiving formula through WIC on May 1, 2023. To see what baby formula you can purchase:        

• Check  the “My Benefits” option in the WICShopper app. If you do not have the app, download the app and register your eWIC card. 
• Visit www.ebtedge.com or call 1-844-234-4950.  
• If you have a WIC appointment, you can request your Family Food Benefit list (either emailed to you or in person).

Ready-to-use formula is only issued if your child has a special medical need such as a compromised immune system or your family does not have access to safe drinking water. During the formula shortage, ready-to-use formulas were temporarily available to help all families find formula at the store. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) sets rules for WIC on issuing ready-to-use formulas since ready-to-use formula costs much more than powdered formula. Both types of formula offer your baby the same nutrition for proper growth and development.

If you have questions on how to switch to or prepare powdered Enfamil formula, please contact your local WIC clinic for help.

In response to the formula shortage, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) allowed Colorado WIC to temporarily add larger can sizes and other brands of formula to help WIC families find formula on store shelves when they could not find their regular WIC Enfamil formula. As the supply of baby formula has improved, the USDA flexibilities for the Colorado WIC Program will end on April 30, 2023.

Yes. Babies and kids that receive specialty formulas for medical reasons prescribed by a doctor can continue to receive these formulas in larger can sizes through June 30, 2023. 

Beginning July 1, specialty formulas will need to be in the WIC-allowed can sizes. For a complete list of specialty medical formulas available through Colorado WIC with a prescription click here.

As long as they are the same formula type, your baby will probably do just fine. For example, stick with cow’s milk-based formula if your baby tolerates it well. If your baby doesn’t seem to like the taste or has a hard time tolerating the new formula, try gradually introducing small amounts of the new formula mixed in with the usual formula. Slowly increase the amount of the new formula.

Be patient, since it may take some time for your baby to get used to a new formula. If you have questions about whether your baby is tolerating the new formula, call your pediatrician.

Human milk gives babies powerful health benefits, such as protection for you and your baby from many illnesses, optimal nutrition, and can help build a strong bond between you and your baby. WIC’s goal is to help keep you and your family healthy - including helping you to start and continue breastfeeding as long as you choose. If you are expecting your baby and considering your feeding options, know that Colorado WIC has many free resources available, including one-on-one support from lactation experts, lactation consultation appointments, classes and support groups, breastfeeding peer counselors, and breast pumps and supplies when needed. In addition, breastfeeding individuals receive more foods to meet their increased nutritional needs.

Resource: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) website. Refer to the section titled, “Try a New Brand of Formula.”

If you are receiving WIC formula benefits and have questions about which formulas are available to you, call your local WIC clinic for help.