As part of ongoing efforts to promote healthier eating habits, the Louisiana Department of Health has announced new food restrictions for SNAP recipients, effective February 18, 2026, coinciding with Ash Wednesday. These changes are aimed at prioritizing nutritious options and improving public health across the state.
New SNAP Food Restrictions
The SNAP Food Restriction Waiver implements new limitations intended to foster a healthier diet. Under this waiver, SNAP recipients are prohibited from using their Electronic Benefits Transfer cards to purchase items like soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, gum, and mints. However, these products can still be acquired using cash, debit, or other forms of payment.
This initiative is part of a federally approved demonstration project under Governor Jeff Landry’s Executive Order 25-052, issued in 2025. The focus is to encourage healthier food selections and address various diet-related health challenges, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Despite these new restrictions, SNAP recipients will still have access to a wide range of eligible foods, including fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products such as milk and cheese, breads, cereals, grains, and seeds for home gardening.
The goal is to re-center nutrition-dense foods within the SNAP program and promote healthier lifestyles for families throughout Louisiana. Those living in areas with limited access to healthy food can take advantage of programs such as farmers’ markets that accept SNAP benefits.
The Louisiana Department of Health encourages SNAP recipients to plan their meals around whole foods and nutritious staples. Additionally, they are urged to explore local healthy incentives programs that offer bonuses for purchasing fruits and vegetables using their benefits.
For more information, email LAHelpU@la.gov or call 888-524-3578 (LAHELPU).
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Key Takeaways
- New SNAP restrictions take effect on February 18, 2026.
- Prohibited items include soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, gum, and mints.
- Recipients can still buy a variety of healthy foods, including fruits and vegetables.
- The initiative aims to combat diet-related health issues.
- Programs like farmers’ markets will continue to accept SNAP benefits.
- Meal planning around whole foods is encouraged.
FAQ
What foods are no longer eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
SNAP beneficiaries cannot use their benefits to buy soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, gum, and mints.
Can I still buy healthy foods with SNAP benefits?
Yes, recipients can purchase fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, grains, and seeds.
Why were these restrictions put in place?
The restrictions are designed to promote healthier eating habits and address public health issues related to diet.
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