SNAP rules are changing in 12 states—here’s what foods could soon be off-limits
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Big changes are coming to grocery store purchases for millions of Americans who rely on SNAP benefits.
A growing number of states are being granted waivers to limit what foods can be purchased through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—especially when it comes to sugary drinks, candy, and processed snacks.
These changes are set to take effect starting in 2026 and are already generating plenty of discussion about nutrition, fairness, and public health.
While some welcome the new rules as a step toward healthier eating, others worry about how they’ll impact access and choice.
Here's what you need to know if you or someone you love uses SNAP.
What states are changing the rules?
Beginning in 2026, six more states—Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, Florida, and West Virginia—will join a growing list of states restricting SNAP purchases.
These changes follow earlier waivers granted to Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah.
In total, 12 states will soon have added restrictions on what SNAP benefits can be used to buy.
The federal government is allowing these waivers in hopes of promoting healthier food choices at the state level.
Also read: New SNAP restrictions? Some groceries could soon be off-limits with food benefits
What’s being restricted?
The exact rules vary by state, but several common categories are being targeted:
If you’re unsure what the rules are in your state, you can find up-to-date information on your state’s SNAP website or the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service directory.
Also read: Lawsuit filed against Trump Administration over SNAP benefit changes
Why are these changes happening?
According to officials, the goal is to improve public health and make sure SNAP dollars are spent on nutritious foods.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said, “For years, SNAP has used taxpayer dollars to fund soda and candy—products that fuel America’s diabetes and chronic disease epidemics.”
He called the new waivers a way to “put real food back at the center of the program.”
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins added that SNAP is designed to “supplement grocery budgets so families can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being.”
Also read: What SNAP changes could mean for your grocery budget—23 governors speak out
Will this improve health outcomes?
Supporters of the new restrictions argue that cutting back on sugar-heavy purchases could help reduce chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes.
National dietary guidelines recommend that men consume no more than 35 grams of added sugar per day, and women no more than 25 grams—limits that are often exceeded through sweet drinks and snacks.
Reducing access to these items could help SNAP recipients stay closer to those health targets.
However, critics point out that simply restricting purchases may not be enough to change eating habits.
Dr. Darien Sutton, a medical correspondent for ABC News, noted there’s “no evidence that taking away access to soda will actually fight these conditions,” although he acknowledged sugar’s impact on health.
Others raise concerns that the new rules may complicate grocery shopping or overlook deeper issues like food deserts, high prices for fresh produce, and lack of nutrition education.
How does this compare to past SNAP rules?
SNAP, once known as the food stamp program, has always included certain limitations—alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods have long been excluded.
But most packaged foods and drinks have been allowed.
These new waivers represent a major shift, giving states more control over what recipients can and cannot purchase, based on their own public health goals.
Also read: Could a SNAP benefits error cost your state millions? Here’s what taxpayers need to know
Who is affected by these new rules?
SNAP currently serves over 42 million people across the United States—about 1 in 8 Americans.
This includes working families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others struggling to afford groceries.
If you live in one of the 12 states adopting these new waivers, the rules could affect your weekly food choices and how you plan your grocery trips.
How can recipients prepare?
The rules won’t begin until 2026, giving states time to run outreach campaigns and educate SNAP users about the changes.
If you’re concerned about losing access to certain foods, now is a good time to explore healthier alternatives or connect with local food banks and nutrition programs.
Many community organizations offer guidance on affordable meal planning, healthy swaps, and resources for families on a budget.
Also read: SNAP rules get an overhaul—Here’s what to know.
Helpful resources
If you’re looking for more information or support, start here:
SNAP has long served as a vital safety net, and as these new rules take shape, it's more important than ever to stay informed and supported.
While the changes aim to promote healthier choices, they also raise complex questions about access, autonomy, and nutrition equity.
As 2026 approaches, both recipients and advocates will be watching closely to see how these policies play out.
Read next: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
What are your thoughts on these upcoming SNAP changes—do you believe they’ll lead to healthier habits, or create more challenges for families already struggling to make ends meet? Share it in the comments below!
A growing number of states are being granted waivers to limit what foods can be purchased through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—especially when it comes to sugary drinks, candy, and processed snacks.
These changes are set to take effect starting in 2026 and are already generating plenty of discussion about nutrition, fairness, and public health.
While some welcome the new rules as a step toward healthier eating, others worry about how they’ll impact access and choice.
Here's what you need to know if you or someone you love uses SNAP.
New SNAP restrictions rolling out in 12 states could change what millions of Americans can buy at the grocery store with their benefits. Image Source: Pexels / Nothing Ahead.
What states are changing the rules?
Beginning in 2026, six more states—Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, Florida, and West Virginia—will join a growing list of states restricting SNAP purchases.
These changes follow earlier waivers granted to Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah.
In total, 12 states will soon have added restrictions on what SNAP benefits can be used to buy.
The federal government is allowing these waivers in hopes of promoting healthier food choices at the state level.
Also read: New SNAP restrictions? Some groceries could soon be off-limits with food benefits
What’s being restricted?
The exact rules vary by state, but several common categories are being targeted:
- Sugary drinks: Most participating states are banning sodas and other sugary beverages.
- Candy and sweets: Candy bars, gummies, and similar treats are off-limits in at least eight states.
- Energy drinks: Some states have included high-caffeine beverages in the bans.
- Fruit and vegetable drinks with low juice content: For example, Arkansas restricts drinks with less than 50% real juice.
- Prepared desserts: Florida is removing desserts like bakery cakes from SNAP eligibility.
- Snack foods and gum: Iowa’s rules go even further, banning nearly all “taxable food items,” which includes many common snacks and convenience foods.
If you’re unsure what the rules are in your state, you can find up-to-date information on your state’s SNAP website or the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service directory.
Also read: Lawsuit filed against Trump Administration over SNAP benefit changes
Why are these changes happening?
According to officials, the goal is to improve public health and make sure SNAP dollars are spent on nutritious foods.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said, “For years, SNAP has used taxpayer dollars to fund soda and candy—products that fuel America’s diabetes and chronic disease epidemics.”
He called the new waivers a way to “put real food back at the center of the program.”
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins added that SNAP is designed to “supplement grocery budgets so families can afford the nutritious food essential to health and well-being.”
Also read: What SNAP changes could mean for your grocery budget—23 governors speak out
Will this improve health outcomes?
Supporters of the new restrictions argue that cutting back on sugar-heavy purchases could help reduce chronic conditions like obesity and diabetes.
National dietary guidelines recommend that men consume no more than 35 grams of added sugar per day, and women no more than 25 grams—limits that are often exceeded through sweet drinks and snacks.
Reducing access to these items could help SNAP recipients stay closer to those health targets.
However, critics point out that simply restricting purchases may not be enough to change eating habits.
Dr. Darien Sutton, a medical correspondent for ABC News, noted there’s “no evidence that taking away access to soda will actually fight these conditions,” although he acknowledged sugar’s impact on health.
Others raise concerns that the new rules may complicate grocery shopping or overlook deeper issues like food deserts, high prices for fresh produce, and lack of nutrition education.
How does this compare to past SNAP rules?
SNAP, once known as the food stamp program, has always included certain limitations—alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods have long been excluded.
But most packaged foods and drinks have been allowed.
These new waivers represent a major shift, giving states more control over what recipients can and cannot purchase, based on their own public health goals.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps over 42 million Americans each month—but new state-level rules may limit which foods can be purchased with these benefits. Image Source: YouTube / Chronicles of The Grey Haired Diva.
Also read: Could a SNAP benefits error cost your state millions? Here’s what taxpayers need to know
Who is affected by these new rules?
SNAP currently serves over 42 million people across the United States—about 1 in 8 Americans.
This includes working families, seniors, individuals with disabilities, and others struggling to afford groceries.
If you live in one of the 12 states adopting these new waivers, the rules could affect your weekly food choices and how you plan your grocery trips.
How can recipients prepare?
The rules won’t begin until 2026, giving states time to run outreach campaigns and educate SNAP users about the changes.
If you’re concerned about losing access to certain foods, now is a good time to explore healthier alternatives or connect with local food banks and nutrition programs.
Many community organizations offer guidance on affordable meal planning, healthy swaps, and resources for families on a budget.
Also read: SNAP rules get an overhaul—Here’s what to know.
Helpful resources
If you’re looking for more information or support, start here:
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service – Find national updates and policy details.
- State SNAP Program Directory – Look up your state’s SNAP information and rules.
- Local food banks, community centers, and nutrition education programs – These may offer classes, food support, or one-on-one guidance.
SNAP has long served as a vital safety net, and as these new rules take shape, it's more important than ever to stay informed and supported.
While the changes aim to promote healthier choices, they also raise complex questions about access, autonomy, and nutrition equity.
As 2026 approaches, both recipients and advocates will be watching closely to see how these policies play out.
Read next: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
What are your thoughts on these upcoming SNAP changes—do you believe they’ll lead to healthier habits, or create more challenges for families already struggling to make ends meet? Share it in the comments below!
