The upcoming changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Louisiana will significantly impact what recipients can purchase using their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards. Starting February 18, 2026, certain non-nutritious foods, including carbonated beverages and candy, will be prohibited. This initiative aims to promote healthier eating habits among families across the state.
Overview of Changes
Beginning Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, SNAP recipients in Louisiana will no longer be able to use their EBT cards to purchase certain non-nutritious foods.
This modification is part of the approval of Louisiana’s Food Restriction Waiver, which Governor Jeff Landry signed last year.
Currently, 18 states have implemented the SNAP Food Restriction Waiver.
Louisiana SNAP recipients will be unable to buy soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy, which includes gum and mints. However, purchases can still be made with cash, debit, or other means, excluding the use of an EBT card.
Stores across the state have displayed signs for weeks to inform shoppers about the new restrictions.
The initiative aims to center nutrition-dense foods within SNAP and support healthier lifestyles for families in Louisiana. The EBT card remains valid for a variety of nutritious options, including fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy products, cereals, grains, and seeds for home gardening.
The Louisiana Department of Health notes that this change addresses the state’s concerning rates of diet-related illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Enhancing food quality is a key strategy for preventing these conditions, as frequent purchases of sugary drinks and snacks contribute excess calories with minimal nutritional benefit.
What you can and can’t buy
A soft drink is categorized as any carbonated, non-alcoholic beverage that contains high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. However, carbonated water and beverages containing milk (or its substitutes) do not fall under this definition. Drinks with at least 50% vegetable or fruit juice by volume are also excluded from the soft drink category.
Energy drinks are defined as beverages containing stimulants like caffeine, guarana, glucuronolactone, or taurine. These may also include herbal extracts or high quantities of sugars and amino acids.
Candy is defined as any combination of sugar, honey, or sweeteners blended with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or flavorings presented in the form of bars, drops, or pieces. This classification includes gum and mints, but excludes protein bars, granola bars, or baking ingredients.
Key Takeaways
- The Louisiana SNAP program will restrict purchasing of certain sugary and non-nutritious items starting February 18, 2026.
- Prohibited items include soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy.
- These changes align with a state initiative aimed at improving public health by enhancing dietary habits.
- Nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy products will still be eligible for purchase using EBT cards.
- Cash and debit can still be used to buy restricted items.
- Louisiana joins 18 other states in implementing similar food restriction policies for SNAP.
FAQ
Will I be able to buy soft drinks with my EBT card?
No, starting February 18, 2026, you will not be able to purchase soft drinks using your EBT card.
What foods are still allowed to be purchased?
Eligible purchases include fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and grains among others.
Can I still buy restricted items with cash?
Yes, you can purchase restricted items using cash or debit cards.
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