IFPA gives WIC funding update

WASHINGTON, July 10, 2025 – The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) BB #:378962, the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce supply chain, today commended the Senate Appropriations Committee for advancing legislation that fully funds the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Cash Value Benefit (CVB) for fiscal year 2026.

“This is a crucial win for the families who rely on WIC, and for the produce industry members who work every day to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to American tables,” said IFPA CEO Cathy Burns. “We are grateful to the Senate Appropriations Committee for protecting access to the fresh produce benefits that help build a healthier next generation.”

The current WIC fruit and vegetable benefit amount aligns with the 2017 National Academies of Science’s recommendations to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. Since its implementation, young children participating in WIC have consumed more fruits and vegetables daily, while growers have benefited from a broader variety of produce being purchased through the program than when benefit levels were lower.

The Senate committee’s action comes in response to the House agriculture appropriations bill that proposed harmful cuts to the fruit and vegetable Cash Value Benefit. IFPA and its members have consistently urged full funding and the preservation of this benefit at its current, science-backed levels.

“We look forward to working with lawmakers as the House and Senate move to conference negotiations and urge Congress to deliver a final bill that fully funds the WIC CVB and supports bipartisan efforts to improve dietary quality, support farmers, and increase fruit and vegetable consumption nationwide,” Burns added. “The fresh produce industry stands ready to support this effort every step of the way.”

IFPA has led advocacy campaigns in support of WIC, raising awareness of the program’s impact and the risks of funding cuts. For decades, the produce industry has consistently championed efforts to improve nutrition security and expand access to fresh, healthy foods.

About the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain and the only to seamlessly integrate world-facing advocacy and industry-facing support. We exist to bring the industry together to create a vibrant future for all. We grow our members’ prosperity by conducting advocacy, connecting people and ideas; and offering guidance that allows us all to take action with purpose and confidence. IFPA represents member companies from small family businesses to the largest international corporations throughout the global fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations.