US EditionSnap bans on candy, soda to start in five US states, limiting food-aid purchases
At least 18 states seek waivers to restrict SNAP purchases of soda, candy, and other sugary items, affecting about 42 million beneficiaries nationwide, USDA data shows.
- On Thursday, Jan. 1 Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia will limit what people can buy with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, while at least 18 states will implement SNAP changes in 2026, the USDA said.
- The policy stems from a federal push led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, with waiver-seeking states empowered by the USDA to limit SNAP purchases.
- States defined the bans to exclude certain items and include others, saying soft drinks and 'sweetened beverages' are barred across the 18 states, while Iowa bars taxable foods and drinks with 50% or less fruit or vegetable juice.
- Around 1.4 million people will see changes in January and around 13 million in 2026, while opponents warn the rules will increase stigma, confusion, and grocery prices, Food Research & Action Center said.
- Restrictions will roll out through 2026, with Florida and Texas starting in April, South Carolina in August and Missouri in October; about 42 million people used SNAP benefits monthly in 2024.
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These are the first of at least 18 states to enact exemptions prohibiting the purchase of certain foods.
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