SNAP bans on soda, candy and other items begin to take effect

SNAP bans on soda, candy and other food products have reportedly started to take effect in some states.

RELATED: The government shutdown officially ends – here’s the update on SNAP benefits, back pay for federal workers, air travel and more!

Learn more about reported SNAP bans on soda, candy and other food products in some states

According to The United States todayIndiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah and West Virginia are the first states to ban soda, candy and other food products starting Thursday, January 1. Utah and West Virginia will begin by banning “the use of SNAP to purchase soda and soft drinks.” Nebraska will “ban soda and energy drinks,” while “Indiana will target soda and candy.” Iowa will follow with limits on “taxable foods, including soda and candy, but also certain prepared foods.” AP News reports.

“The Trump Administration is leading bold reform to strengthen integrity and restore nutritional value within the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. » the United States Department of Agriculture reportedly affirmed the update. “…These waivers are a key step in ensuring that taxpayer dollars provide nutritious options that improve health outcomes within SNAP.” »

According to the outlet, earlier this year, Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. noted that “every American who wants to eat a donut should be able to eat it or drink a Coke. But the federal taxpayer should not pay to poison our children. And we are going to stop it.”

Will more states adopt bans on soda, candy and other food products?

According to the outlet, a total of 18 states will ultimately adopt the ban in 2026. In February, after the first five states launch their restrictions, Idaho, Oklahoma and Louisiana will follow suit. In March, Colorado will join the ban. Texas, Virginia and Florida will join the ban in April. Arkansas and Tennessee will join the ban in July. Hawaii and South Carolina will join the ban in August. North Dakota will join it in September and Missouri in October.

AP News adds that the effort aims to “reduce chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes associated with sugary drinks and other treats.” However, some “retail industry and health policy experts” believe the update, which contains “no comprehensive list of affected foods and point-of-sale technical challenges that vary by state and store,” could lead to longer lines and customer complaints.

“It’s a disaster waiting to happen that people are trying to buy food and being rejected,” expert Kate Bauer reportedly told the outlet, while doctor Anand Parekh added. “It doesn’t solve the two fundamental problems, that healthy food in this country is not affordable and that unhealthy food is cheap and ubiquitous.”

Recent SNAP Events

As The shadow room As previously reported, SNAP resumed when the government shutdown ended in November. Since then, the program has made headlines, alongside the Trump administration reportedly requiring recipients to reapply for benefits. This is because it was reported that more than 180,000 deceased people would still receive funds.

Earlier this month, it was reported that Democratic states could face restrictions on welfare benefits if they do not comply with Trump’s initiative.

RELATED: Democratic states could face SNAP restrictions as Trump administration reportedly cracks down on fraud (UPDATE)