Archive · 1 Jan 2026
SNAP Benefits Restrict Soda and Candy
The government is making changes to the SNAP program, which helps people buy food.
Starting in January, some states will not allow SNAP benefits to be used to buy soda, energy drinks, candy, and certain prepared foods.
This change is happening in 18 states, including Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia.
The goal is to help people eat healthier and reduce problems like obesity and diabetes.
About 1.4 million people will be affected by these changes right away.
The program serves 42 million Americans and costs $100 billion.
Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins are leading this effort to make people healthier.
18 states will implement new SNAP restrictions, starting with five states in January.
Banned items include soda, energy drinks, candy, and certain prepared foods.
About 1.4 million people will be affected by the initial changes.
The goal is to promote healthier eating habits and reduce chronic diseases.
The program serves 42 million Americans and costs $100 billion.
- Who
- Millions of SNAP recipients in 18 states
- What
- New restrictions on purchasing soda, energy drinks, candy, and certain prepared foods
- When
- January 1 for five states, later in the year for the rest
- Where
- 18 states, including Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia
- Why
- To promote healthier eating habits and reduce chronic diseases like obesity and diabetes
- States Implementing Changes
- 18 states, including Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia
- Effective Date
- January 1 for five states, later in the year for the rest
- Affected Population
- About 1.4 million people in the initial five states
- Banned Items
- Soda, energy drinks, candy, and certain prepared foods
- Program Budget
- $100 billion federal program
- Program Participants
- 42 million Americans
- Health Secretary
- Robert F Kennedy Jr
- Agriculture Secretary
- Brooke Rollins