Jordan Hansen
A sign in an Indianapolis store shown on Aug. 1, 2023, says SNAP benefits are accepted. (Photo by Getty Images)
The State of Montana has received federal approval from the United States Department of Agriculture to prohibit soft drinks, junk food, and candy from being included in the state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
SNAP is a federal initiative managed by the USDA. With this action, Montana joins 22 other states in restricting these food categories within its SNAP program.
Governor Greg Gianforte expressed in a press release that the state is taking, “bold steps to Make America Healthy Again,” emphasizing the goal of ensuring taxpayer dollars are used to provide nutritious options that enhance health outcomes for individuals dependent on these vital programs.
Montana had to submit a waiver to the USDA to enforce these restrictions, which was done earlier this year .
The waiver specifically targets beverages containing more than 10 grams of sugar per 8 ounces, along with energy drinks. It also sets forth new categories of banned items and offers “a standardized definition of candy and prepared desserts.”
Under Montana’s waiver, candy is defined as:
“A shelf-stable preparation of sugar, honey, or other nutritive or non-nutritive sweeteners, combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings, in forms such as bars, drops, or pieces. This includes gelatin-based confections (gummies), licorice, hard candies, and compressed sugar pieces.”
The SNAP restrictions will not apply to 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 substantially nut and/or real fruit based.”
Excluded from these restrictions are “store-made bakery items,” although pre-packed dessert snacks will remain ineligible.
“This waiver is a critical step in addressing the increasing concern of diet-related chronic conditions across our state,” said Montana’s Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Charlie Brereton in a statement. “By aligning SNAP purchases with national dietary guidelines, we are supporting Montana’s goal of reducing the intake of sugary drinks, candy, and other foods linked to health problems like obesity and Type 2 diabetes.”
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins also acknowledged the Gianforte Administration’s initiative.
“Realigning SNAP with its foundational focus on nutrition is a sensible approach, and we hope to secure waivers for all 50 states soon, promoting healthy food options for all Americans,” Rollins stated.
Earlier this year, some SNAP recipients filed a lawsuit against the USDA regarding the inclusion of sugary drinks. This case is currently pending in federal court and seeks to overturn the waivers.
Courtesy of Daily Montanan
Key Takeaways
- Montana has received USDA approval to ban sugary drinks and junk food from SNAP benefits.
- The state follows in the footsteps of 22 other states with similar restrictions.
- Governor Gianforte emphasizes the initiative aims to improve health outcomes for SNAP recipients.
- The waiver includes specific sugar thresholds for banned drinks and defines what constitutes candy.
- Exemptions exist for meal replacement bars and certain store-made items.
FAQ
What items are banned under Montana’s SNAP restrictions?
Soft drinks, junk food, and candy, specifically those that exceed designated sugar content, are banned under the waiver.
Are there any exceptions to the restrictions?
Yes, certain items like meal replacement bars, protein bars, and specific fruit snacks are not prohibited.
Who announced this initiative?
The announcement was made by Governor Greg Gianforte, along with statements from state health officials and USDA representatives.
What is the purpose of these new restrictions?
The goal is to align SNAP purchases with nutritional guidelines and combat diet-related health issues.
What legal actions are associated with these changes?
A lawsuit has been filed by some SNAP recipients against the USDA, challenging the inclusion of sugary drinks in the program.
