Oklahoma city recently implemented new restrictions on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). These rules specifically limit the types of food that recipients can purchase, aiming to promote healthier dietary choices and more responsible spending of SNAP benefits.
According to the latest updates, the restrictions initiated by Oklahoma Governor Stitt are now in effect, which prohibit the purchase of certain items.
Several states across the country have sought waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture, asking for modifications to the definitions of restricted foods and for adjustments to the enforcement timeline.
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In Oklahoma, policies specifically restrict purchases of candy and soft drinks. As per the SNAP guidelines, retailers in the state cannot accept SNAP EBT payments for these items.
According to USDA definitions, soft drinks encompass any beverage marketed as soda, soft drink, sports drink, energy drink, flavored water, or juice drink containing less than 100% juice. This classification includes colas, teas, punches, lemonades, sports or energy beverages, flavored waters, and fruit drinks that are not 100% juice. However, this definition excludes items such as milk, plain coffee (in any form), plain bottled water, 100% fruit juice, and homemade beverages.
OK SNAP regulations start in February, no soft drinks or candy
Candy is defined as candy bars or any products that contain wafers, cookies, or flour components primarily sold as candy. This includes non-bakery items coated in chocolate, yogurt, or other candy coatings, such as chocolate-covered raisins and similar products. Retailers are also expected to apply this definition to equivalent items marketed as candy, including private-label or store-brand options.
The term ‘candy’ does not encompass:
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Baked goods such as cakes, cookies, muffins, brownies, pastries, or bread.
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Items primarily sold as baking ingredients, such as chocolate chips, baking chocolate, or cocoa powder.
Originally scheduled to roll out on January 1, 2026, the new regulations officially commenced on February 15, 2026. This adjustment was announced just last week, alongside the detailed list of restricted items.
“It’s about 18,000 items, and that will likely expand,” said Chris Bernard of Hunger Free Oklahoma, highlighting the broad impact of these restrictions.
The waiver clarifies that the term ‘soft drinks’ includes all fountain drinks and slushies, irrespective of their flavor or packaging.
Items classified as soft drinks do not include:
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Milk or milk substitutes.
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Coffee beans, grounds, instant coffee, or brewed coffee.
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100% fruit or vegetable juice.
These new restrictions on soft drinks and candy are not the only limitations placed on how beneficiaries can utilize their SNAP benefits. Non-food items such as soap or paper products, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, medications, and hot foods are also already off limits across all states.
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Key Takeaways
- SNAP restrictions in Oklahoma now prohibit the purchase of soft drinks and candy.
- State SNAP retailers cannot accept EBT payments for regulated items.
- Soft drinks include beverages marketed as fizzy or flavored, excluding 100% juice and certain other drinks.
- Candy encompasses a variety of confectionary items, but not baked goods or baking ingredients.
- Additional restrictions also cover non-food items and alcoholic beverages.
FAQ
What items are prohibited under the new SNAP restrictions?
The new restrictions ban soft drinks and candy purchases with SNAP benefits.
When did the new regulations take effect?
The regulations commenced on February 15, 2026, having originally been scheduled for January 1.
Are there any exceptions to these restrictions?
Yes, certain beverages like milk, plain coffee, and 100% fruit juice are not considered soft drinks and are exempt.
What other items are already off limits for SNAP spending?
Non-food items, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, and medications are already prohibited across all states.
