As we move towards 2026, significant changes are on the horizon for shoppers utilizing SNAP benefits. A total of 22 states will implement new restrictions on eligible food purchases, primarily focusing on reducing access to sugary products.
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Shoppers who use SNAP food benefits will see changes to what they can buy in 2026 and beyond.
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Twenty-two states are changing or will change what people who use SNAP can buy.
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Most of the changes limit purchases of sugary drinks and foods.
Big changes are coming to how shoppers can use SNAP benefits in certain states. Some states began implementing new rules on January 1 that limit purchases of soda, energy drinks, candy, and various other items for SNAP recipients, according to a list of changes provided by the Department of Agriculture. Overall, 22 states plan to introduce new restrictions starting in 2026.
While some restrictions have already taken effect, others won’t be implemented until later this year, as per the approval notices issued by the federal government to the states. In specific cases, shoppers won’t experience changes until 2027 or 2028.
During the 2024 federal fiscal year, approximately 42 million people, which accounts for about 12% of the US resident population, depended on SNAP benefits each month, according to the Department of Agriculture.
These changes align with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s initiative, Make America Healthy Again. In addition to focusing on skepticism of vaccine mandates, Kennedy aims to limit consumption of specific food ingredients, particularly sugar and certain food dyes.
To implement these changes, states were required to request waivers from the federal government for the existing rules governing SNAP benefit spending.
The effectiveness of limiting purchases of sugary foods and beverages in promoting healthier habits among SNAP users remains to be seen.
In many instances, shoppers and retailers have not received a clear list of which products will no longer qualify for SNAP purchases, as noted by the anti-hunger advocacy organization Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) in a blog post in December.
In Iowa, for instance, the new regulations indicate that products like vitamins, minerals, and candy-coated items will no longer be eligible for SNAP. This lack of clarity is problematic for shoppers when they visit the store, according to FRAC.
“The items list does not provide enough specific information to prepare a SNAP participant to go to the grocery store,” FRAC stated.
Below is a breakdown of the states changing the eligibility of foods for SNAP in 2026 and beyond, according to the Department of Agriculture:
Arkansas
Starting July 1, SNAP rules in Arkansas will restrict purchases of soda, “unhealthy drinks,” beverages containing less than 50% natural juice, and candy.
Colorado
Colorado will restrict the purchase of soft drinks using SNAP funds starting on April 30.
Florida
In Florida, SNAP shoppers will encounter new restrictions on the purchase of soda, energy drinks, candy, and “prepared desserts” beginning April 20.
Hawaii
Hawaii will restrict SNAP shoppers from purchasing soft drinks starting on August 1.
Idaho
Idaho imposed restrictions on soda and candy purchases for SNAP users starting on February 15.
Indiana
Indiana shoppers using SNAP benefits faced new restrictions on soft drink and candy purchases from January 1.
Iowa
Iowa enacted restrictions on “all taxable food items” effective January 1. According to a notice sent to recipients, shoppers can no longer purchase soda, candy, candy-coated products, vitamins and minerals, chewing gum, or beverages with 50% or less fruit and vegetable juice.
Kansas
Beginning February 15, 2027, Kansas will ban purchases of candy and soft drinks for SNAP recipients.
Louisiana
Louisiana has restricted the purchase of soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy starting February 18.
Missouri
In Missouri, SNAP benefits will restrict buying candy, prepared desserts, and “certain unhealthy beverages” starting on October 1.
Nebraska
Nebraska restricted SNAP purchases of soda and energy drinks, beginning on January 1.
Nevada
Starting February 1, 2028, candy and sugar-sweetened beverages will be ineligible for purchase using SNAP benefits in Nevada.
North Dakota
North Dakota will restrict purchases of soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy for SNAP users beginning on September 1.
Ohio
Ohio will prohibit purchasing sugar-sweetened beverages with SNAP benefits effective October 1.
Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, SNAP users will face new restrictions on purchasing soft drinks and candy starting on February 15.
South Carolina
SNAP restrictions in South Carolina will also include candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages effective August 31.
Tennessee
On July 31, Tennessee will limit SNAP purchases of processed foods and beverages, such as soda, energy drinks, and candy.
Texas
Texas will enforce new rules starting on April 1, which will limit the purchase of sweetened drinks and candy for SNAP users.
Utah
Utah has already restricted the purchase of soft drinks for SNAP users since January 1.
Virginia
Purchases of “sweetened beverages” are set to be restricted for SNAP users in Virginia starting on April 1.
West Virginia
In West Virginia, buying soda has already been restricted for SNAP shoppers since January 1.
Wyoming
Beginning on February 1, 2027, Wyoming will prohibit SNAP recipients from using benefits to purchase sugar-sweetened carbonated beverages.
Key Takeaways
- Changes to SNAP benefits will begin in 2026, impacting eligible food purchases in 22 states.
- Most states are focusing on limiting purchases of sugary drinks and snacks.
- New regulations aim to promote healthier food choices among SNAP recipients.
- Some changes are already in effect, while others will roll out over the next few years.
- Lack of clarity on eligible products creates challenges for shoppers.
FAQ
Will these changes affect all SNAP recipients?
Yes, the new restrictions will apply to all individuals using SNAP benefits in the affected states.
When will these changes take effect?
Changes will vary by state, with some already in effect and others beginning in 2026 and beyond.
Are there specific foods that will be banned?
Yes, many states will ban sugary drinks, candy, and certain processed foods from being purchased with SNAP benefits.
How will recipients know what products are eligible?
While states are expected to provide lists, there may be insufficient information to help shoppers navigate the new rules effectively.
Read the original article on Business Insider.
