Starting October 30, 2026, Colorado will implement new SNAP restrictions specifically targeting “soft drinks.” These regulations will determine the types of beverages that can be purchased using SNAP benefits in the state.
The changes will affect all SNAP purchases across Colorado, including at grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers’ markets, and online retailers. Below is a comprehensive overview of the new regulations and the beverages that will be restricted or banned.
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As of October 30, 2026, SNAP beneficiaries in Colorado will be prohibited from purchasing the following “soft drinks”:
- Soda, encompassing both regular and diet varieties
- Sweetened iced teas
- Sweetened cold coffee beverages (unless they contain milk)
- Sports drinks containing added natural or artificial sweeteners
- Energy drinks with added natural or artificial sweeteners
- Drinks with less than 50 percent fruit or vegetable juice
It will be up to retailers to determine which specific items fall under this new eligibility criteria. For instance, a carbonated beverage that contains no added sweeteners could still be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits, even if it is displayed alongside sodas.
The new regulations define “soft drinks” as any nonalcoholic beverages containing either natural or artificial sweeteners.
Items made with milk or its alternatives—such as soy, oat, almond, or rice milk—and drinks that consist of over 50 percent fruit or vegetable juice remain exempt from this classification and can still be bought with SNAP benefits.
Implications for SNAP Users:
- Some items previously eligible for SNAP may no longer scan at checkout.
- You may encounter “item not allowed” notifications when shopping online.
- You can still purchase the item using alternative payment methods such as cash, debit, credit, or TANF.
- If a cashier allows the purchase of a restricted item, you will not face repercussions for buying it partially by mistake.
You generally may use your SNAP benefits to buy any food products with a “nutrition facts” label, which still include:
- Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- Proteins including fish, meat, eggs, and beans
- Dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and milk
- Grains like rice, farro, and corn
- Cooking essentials such as oils, spices, salt, and pepper
- Infant formula and baby food
What can’t you buy with SNAP?#what-cant-you-buy-with-snap
The recent restrictions supplement existing federal prohibitions on SNAP purchases, which include:
- Alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products
- Vitamins, supplements, and medications
- Hot foods sold as prepared meals, like rotisserie chicken or soup from a deli
- Pet food
- Household cleaning supplies and other non-food items
- Diapers and wipes
- Live animals (except for certain seafood and livestock prepared for pickup)
Adapting to these new regulations might take some time. Here are a few helpful tips to ease the transition and maximize your benefits:
- Explore alternatives: Many beverages, including those made primarily from fruit and vegetable juices, sparkling water, and flavored milk, remain eligible for SNAP purchase in Colorado.
- Opt for regular checkout to avoid confusion: If you’re uncertain about your purchases, using a cashier at checkout might streamline the process, allowing you to ask questions.
- Check item eligibility online: When shopping online, you can view whether items are labeled as “EBT-eligible” or “EBT not accepted” before finalizing your purchase.
- Utilize the Propel app for balance tracking: Propel offers real-time updates on your balance and transactions, ensuring you stay informed about your SNAP benefits and any new restrictions.
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Can I still buy juice with SNAP in Colorado?#can-i-still-buy-juice-with-snap-in-colorado
Yes, you can continue to purchase juice with SNAP benefits in Colorado, provided it isn’t classified as a “soft drink” under the new guidelines. Beverages with more than 50 percent fruit or vegetable juice by volume remain eligible.
Can I buy frozen pizza with my SNAP benefits in Colorado?#can-i-buy-frozen-pizza-with-my-snap-benefits-in-colorado
Yes, frozen meals, including pizza, are still permitted. Cold take-and-bake pizza is also acceptable, as you can cook it at home.
Can I buy hot food with my EBT card in Colorado?#can-i-buy-hot-food-with-my-ebt-card-in-colorado
No, using your SNAP benefits to purchase hot food is not allowed in Colorado.
Key Takeaways
- The new SNAP restrictions in Colorado will begin on October 30, 2026.
- Many sweetened beverages, including sodas and sports drinks, will no longer be eligible for purchase.
- Beverages containing over 50 percent fruit or vegetable juice, as well as milk products, will remain eligible.
- Retailers will determine which specific products qualify under the new rules.
- Users may experience checkout issues if restricted items are mistakenly attempted for purchase.
- Alternative payment methods will still allow you to buy ineligible items.
- Helpful apps like Propel can assist in tracking balances and understanding eligibility.
FAQ
What drinks are banned under the new SNAP rules?
Beginning October 30, 2026, sweetened beverages including sodas, iced teas, and energy drinks will be banned.
Will I be able to purchase milk or juice with SNAP?
Yes, milk and juices with over 50 percent fruit or vegetable juice will still be SNAP-eligible.
Can I still pay for hot food with SNAP?
No, using SNAP benefits for hot food items remains prohibited in Colorado.
