A Mixed-Methods Study of Perceived Implementation Challenges for WIC Online Ordering and Transactions

ResearchGretchen Swanson Center for NutritionUSDA FNSWIC State agenciesWIC-authorized vendorseCommerceEBT processorsResearchersAdvocatesTrainingTechnology (MIS, EBT, eCommerce)ReportingFederal Regulations and GuidanceContractsEnglishAll AgenciesPlan and PrepareDesign and BuildImplement
Written By Sam Vetter

Federal food assistance programs are working towards online grocery shopping. Online shopping in Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) is emerging following successful implementation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The objective of this mixed-methods study was to identify anticipated challenges, potential solutions, and expected costs of WIC online shopping Respondents (n = 145) described anticipated challenges across five topic areas: rules and regulations; shopping experience; security, confidentiality, fraud, and WIC State agency processes; training, assistance, and education; and equitable access and buy-in. This study identified several, critical anticipated challenges and considerations that will help prepare WIC State agencies for opportunities to expand online shopping to WIC participants.

 
 

RESOURCE TYPE:

Research

AUTHOR(S):

Center for Nutrition and Health Impact (formerly the Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition)

AUDIENCE(S):

USDA FNS, WIC State agencies, Advocates, Researchers, EBT processors, eCommerce, WIC-authorized vendors

TOPIC AREA(S):

Contracts, Federal Regulations and Guidance, Reporting, Technology (MIS, EBT, eCommerce), Training

STAGE OF ONLINE SHOPPING:

Plan and Prepare, Design and Build, Implement

LANGUAGE:

English

WIC STATE AGENCY(S):

All Agencies

LAST UPDATED:

May 4, 2023

Sam Vetter
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