The state of Montana has recently gained federal approval from the United States Department of Agriculture to prohibit the purchase of soft drinks, junk food, and candy through its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This decision underscores Montana’s commitment to promoting healthier food choices among its residents.
SNAP is a federal program administered by the USDA. With this initiative, Montana joins 22 other states that have implemented similar bans on these items in their SNAP programs.
Governor Greg Gianforte announced in a press release that the state is taking, “bold steps to Make America Healthy Again.” He emphasized the importance of ensuring that taxpayer dollars are utilized to provide nutritious options for individuals who depend on these essential programs.
To enforce these changes, Montana submitted a waiver to the USDA earlier this year to exclude certain items from the SNAP list, which received approval.
The waiver specifically targets beverages containing more than 10 grams of sugar per 8 ounces, as well as energy drinks. Additionally, it introduces new categories of restricted items and establishes a standardized definition for candy and prepared desserts.
According to the definition outlined in the waiver, candy encompasses:
“A shelf-stable preparation of sugar, honey, or other nutritive or non-nutritive sweeteners, combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or various other ingredients or flavorings, available in the form of bars, drops, or individual pieces. This includes gelatin-based confections (gummies), licorice, hard candies, and compressed sugar pieces.”
However, the SNAP restrictions do not cover meal replacement bars, protein bars, or “baking ingredients, fruit snacks made with real fruit and no added sugar, granola, trail mix, and similar products that are predominantly nut and/or real fruit based.”
Furthermore, “store-made bakery items” remain exempt from the restrictions, although pre-packed dessert snacks are not eligible for purchase.
“This waiver is a crucial step in addressing the growing concern of diet-related chronic conditions across our state,” stated Charlie Brereton, Director of the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, in a press release. “By aligning SNAP purchases with national dietary guidelines, we are actively supporting Montana’s objective to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks, candy, and other foods that lead to negative health outcomes, including obesity and Type 2 diabetes.”
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins also acknowledged the Gianforte Administration’s initiative.
“Reinforcing SNAP’s core principle of nutrition is a sensible move, and we aspire to extend waivers to all 50 states soon to promote healthier food options for all Americans,” Rollins said in a press release.
Earlier this year, some SNAP recipients filed a lawsuit against the USDA regarding the inclusion of sugary drinks. This legal matter is currently pending in federal court, aiming to challenge the waivers recently approved.
Key Takeaways
- Montana has banned soft drinks, junk food, and candy from its SNAP program.
- The state joins 22 others with similar restrictions.
- The waiver specifically targets sugary drinks and energy beverages.
- Candy is defined under a standardized category in the waiver.
- Meal replacement bars and baking ingredients are not restricted.
- Montana aims to align SNAP with national dietary guidelines to promote better health.
FAQ
What items are banned from SNAP in Montana?
Soft drinks, junk food, and candy are prohibited under Montana’s new SNAP restrictions.
Are there any exceptions to the ban?
Yes, items like meal replacement bars, protein bars, and store-made bakery items are not included in the restrictions.
Why was this ban implemented?
The ban was established to promote healthier food choices and reduce diet-related health issues among SNAP recipients.
How many states have similar bans?
Montana is one of 22 states that have banned soft drinks, junk food, and candy from their SNAP programs.
Is there any ongoing litigation related to the ban?
Yes, some SNAP recipients have filed a lawsuit against the USDA regarding the inclusion of sugary drinks in the SNAP program.
