In a significant policy shift, Louisiana has enacted changes to its SNAP program aimed at promoting healthier food choices for residents. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to support Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) campaign.
Starting Wednesday, Louisiana residents who rely on SNAP benefits can no longer use them to buy soda, energy drinks, or candy.
The change follows Louisiana’s successful acquisition of a federal waiver last year under the new SNAP Healthy Foods program, which aligns with Health and Human Services Secretary Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative. Governor Jeff Landry signed an executive order instructing the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to request the waiver, which was approved by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins in August.
This policy change is part of broader efforts to advance Kennedy’s MAHA campaign. During the 2025 legislative session, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 14, now known as Act 463. This legislation aimed to restrict artificial dyes, sweeteners, preservatives, and seed oils in school meals. Although the original proposal initially included limitations on SNAP purchases, those provisions were ultimately removed before the bill was enacted.
While SNAP recipients can no longer use their benefits for soft drinks, energy drinks, or candy (including gum and mints), they are still able to use their Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for purchasing fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, breads, cereals, grains, and seeds or plants intended for home gardening.
The Louisiana Department of Health encourages residents, especially those living in areas with limited access to fresh food, to explore farmers’ markets and programs that offer additional benefits for purchasing fruits and vegetables with SNAP.
For more information, visit the Louisiana Department of Health’s website.
Key Takeaways
- SNAP benefits in Louisiana can no longer be used to purchase soda, energy drinks, or candy.
- This change is part of the SNAP Healthy Foods program under Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s initiative.
- The state received a federal waiver to implement these restrictions last year.
- While soft drinks and sweets are banned, fruits, vegetables, and other healthy options remain eligible for purchase.
- The Louisiana Department of Health promotes farmers’ markets as a source of fresh produce for residents.
FAQ
What can SNAP recipients buy with their benefits in Louisiana?
SNAP recipients in Louisiana can use their benefits to purchase fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy, breads, cereals, grains, and seeds or plants for home gardening.
Why were sodas and candies removed from eligible purchases?
This change aims to promote healthier eating habits among SNAP participants, influenced by the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
Are there new programs to help SNAP recipients buy fresh produce?
Yes, the Louisiana Department of Health encourages exploring farmers’ markets and programs that offer additional benefits for purchasing fruits and vegetables with SNAP.
