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Cereal - Frequently Asked Questions
MN WIC Program
- Why were Rice Krispies added? (07/08/09)
- Why is oatmeal sometimes listed as a cereal and sometimes listed as a whole grain? (07/08/09)
- Why isn't Quaker Oatmeal allowed? (07/08/09)
- Will gluten-free oats be available? (07/08/09)
- Are any cereal gluten-free? (07/08/09)
- With the new Honey Kix cereal, will we be discouraging mothers of 9 month old babies from using the cereal as a snack (because of the honey)? (07/08/09)
Why were Rice Krispies added? (07/08/09)
Rice Krispies now meet the iron requirement for cereal. they are also a popular cereal for some participants.
Why is oatmeal sometimes listed as a cereal and sometimes listed as a whole grain? (07/08/09)
Oatmeal with iron added to meet WIC-allowed cereal criteria is listed as a cereal. Oatmeal/oats without added iron would not meet the WIC cereal criteria, but would qualify as a whole grain.
Why isn't Quaker Oatmeal allowed? (07/08/09)
Federal regulations specify that 1 pound (16 oz.) of oats may be provided as a whole grain option. Quaker Oats are only available in 18 oz. canisters.
Will gluten-free oats be available? (07/08/09)
Gluten-free oats are a relatively new product. We were not able to identify any products available in Minnesota that meet WIC criteria.
Are any cereal gluten-free? (07/08/09)
Both Rice Chex and Corn Chex are gluten-free.
With the new Honey Kix cereal, will we be discouraging mothers of 9 month old babies from using the cereal as a snack (because of the honey)? (07/08/09)
CPAs should counsel on the importance of avoiding honey and any food products containing honey during an infant's first year. This includes honey graham crackers, Honey Kix and yogurt with honey. This is important because in the preparation process, foods made with honey may not be heated to a high enough temperature to kill Clostridium botulinum spores.
