Multiple U.S. States Implement New SNAP Restrictions on Soda, Candy, and Other Foods

New SNAP Restrictions Take Effect in Several States

As of January 1, 2026, a significant shift in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has commenced, with several U.S. states implementing new waivers that restrict the purchase of certain food items. This move, spearheaded by the Trump administration's 'Make America Healthy Again' policy framework, aims to promote healthier eating habits among SNAP recipients by limiting access to foods deemed 'unhealthy'.

The initial phase of these restrictions impacts over 1.4 million SNAP recipients across five states: Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia. These waivers, approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), represent a departure from decades of federal policy that broadly allowed SNAP benefits for 'any food or food product intended for human consumption,' excluding alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods.

Varying Restrictions Across States

The specific items restricted vary by state, reflecting tailored approaches to the new policy:

• In Indiana, recipients can no longer use SNAP funds for soft drinks and candy.
• Iowa has implemented the most expansive restrictions, banning SNAP purchases for all taxable foods as defined by the Iowa Department of Revenue, with the exception of produce. This includes soda, candy, and certain prepared foods.
• Nebraska has placed restrictions on soda and energy drinks.
• Both Utah and West Virginia have prohibited the use of SNAP benefits for soda and soft drinks.

Thirteen additional states are slated to roll out similar restrictions later in 2026. These include Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Louisiana, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. For instance, Florida will restrict soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts starting April 20, 2026, while Texas will ban sweetened drinks and candy from April 1, 2026. Louisiana's restrictions on soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy are set to begin on February 18, 2026.

Policy Rationale and Concerns

The initiative is championed by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, who assert that the restrictions are crucial for reducing chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, which they link to the consumption of sugary drinks and processed foods. Secretary Rollins stated that '20% of all SNAP dollars are spent on sugary drinks, pre-packaged desserts, salty snacks and sugary treats,' emphasizing that 'the number one purchase by SNAP recipients is sugary drinks'.

However, the new waivers have drawn criticism and concerns from various sectors. Retail industry and health policy experts warn of potential logistical challenges, including longer checkout lines and increased customer complaints as recipients navigate the new rules. The National Grocers Association, the Food Industry Association, and the National Association of Convenience Stores estimate that retailers could face an initial loss of $1.6 billion, followed by an additional $759 million annually, due to the changes. There are also ongoing debates among researchers and advocates regarding whether such restrictions genuinely improve diet quality and health outcomes, or if they might lead to unintended consequences, such as reduced participation in the SNAP program.

Looking Ahead

The waivers are set to run for an initial two-year period, with an option for a three-year extension, during which each state is required to assess the impact of these changes. The USDA has encouraged states to submit waivers that meet their unique needs, aiming to ensure that 'taxpayer dollars provide nutritious options that improve health outcomes within SNAP'.