The WIC Program: An Economic Analysis of Breastfeeding and Infant Formula

BACKGROUND: The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) has provided free infant formula while simultaneously attempting to promote breastfeeding. This article analyzes the cost structure of WIC food packages in relation to breastfeeding. METHODS: The analysis provides 2010 estimates for the cost and utilization of each of the WIC food packages for pairs of infants and their mothers. New food packages were introduced in all states by 2009 and were intended to promote breastfeeding. The analysis accounts for the composition of the new food packages, although utilization projections predate the implementation of those packages, so current rates of breastfeeding may be understated. RESULTS: The projections suggest that just under 74% of infant participants are estimated to receive food packages associated with exclusive formula use. Relative to food packages for mother-infant pairs who exclusively breastfeed, the exclusive formula packages are around 25% more expensive for infants in the first 6 months of life but 64% cheaper during the second 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Simulations suggest that the achievement of the Healthy People 2020 breastfeeding targets among WIC participants would have a minimal effect on food package costs. Simulations for extreme cases (e.g., all fully breastfeeding for 1 year) suggest that food package costs could be reduced by 18% if all WIC mother-infant pairs engaged in exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, followed by exclusive formula use in the next 6 months. A 38% reduction could be achieved if all mother-infant pairs received the partial breastfeeding packages.