New SNAP restrictions? Some groceries could soon be off-limits with food benefits
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For over 50 years, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)—also known to many as food stamps—has helped millions of Americans afford groceries.
From fresh produce to pantry staples, SNAP has been a critical support for families nationwide.
But now, a new wave of state-level proposals could change what items SNAP benefits actually cover.
And if you like having a soda or the occasional sweet treat in your cart, those options may soon be off the table.
Ohio is leading the charge with a new plan that could reshape the grocery experience for thousands of households.
A move toward healthier purchases
SNAP was created in 1964 to help low-income Americans buy nutritious food.
But in recent years, researchers and lawmakers have raised concerns about how much of those benefits are spent on less nutritious items.
One USDA study found that nearly 20 percent of SNAP dollars go toward products like soda, candy, chips, and other snack foods.
Prompted in part by the Trump administration's "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, some lawmakers now want to put stricter limits on what SNAP recipients can buy.
Sweetened beverages are the latest target, and that includes sodas, sugary juices, and other sweet drinks.
If new proposals move forward, these could be among the first items struck from the list of SNAP-eligible purchases.
Also read: The USDA’s latest move—how it could shake up your food habits and grocery list
Ohio takes the lead
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has launched a new task force called the "Working Group on the Submission of a SNAP Waiver."
This group includes public health experts, state leaders, and industry representatives who are working together to identify specific products that should no longer be covered by SNAP benefits.
“I support not using SNAP to purchase these beverages,” Governor DeWine said.
However, instead of banning all sugary drinks outright, the group will recommend certain products for exclusion to minimize red tape and confusion at checkout.
Their report is due by September 28, with a final waiver request to be submitted to the USDA by October 28.
If approved, Ohio could become one of the first states in the country to implement these more targeted restrictions.
Also read: What SNAP changes could mean for your grocery budget—23 governors speak out
What would change for SNAP shoppers?
SNAP recipients would still be able to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, and cereal—those staples remain untouched.
But sweetened beverages are not the only items under review.
Other “extras,” such as candy, chips, ice cream, and prepared desserts, may also be reconsidered.
SNAP already prohibits certain purchases, including alcohol, cigarettes, hot prepared foods, and non-food items like paper towels or cleaning products.
These new proposals would expand that list, encouraging SNAP users to stick to healthier food choices.
Also read: SNAP benefits hit by massive scam surge—are your funds at risk?
Other states are exploring similar changes
Ohio is not alone in this effort.
At least six states have already received federal approval to restrict SNAP purchases of junk food and sugary drinks.
Several more states are awaiting decisions from the USDA.
The movement has received bipartisan backing. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins noted, “This isn’t about politics—it’s about working together to improve the nation’s health.”
One state is planning to block soda and energy drink purchases with SNAP starting next year.
If successful, this could influence other states to follow suit.
Also read: Could a SNAP benefits error cost your state millions? Here’s what taxpayers need to know
Balancing health goals with personal freedom
Still, the proposal is not without critics. Some argue that these rules are overly controlling or even insulting to SNAP recipients.
Others raise concerns about implementation.
Will cashiers have to memorize a list of restricted products? Will it create longer lines and frustration at the checkout counter?
Many also believe occasional treats should still be allowed.
A candy bar or a soda here and there, some argue, should be a personal choice—not a government decision.
Proponents, on the other hand, point to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension—particularly in low-income communities.
They argue that SNAP funds should promote wellness, not contribute to chronic health problems.
Also read: Are your SNAP benefits about to change? New legislation could impact what you can buy
What’s ahead for SNAP and food access?
Ohio’s working group will meet over the coming weeks to gather feedback and finalize its recommendations.
Their findings may not only affect Ohio, but also set a precedent for other states considering similar restrictions.
If you or a loved one uses SNAP, this is a good time to stay informed.
Even if nothing changes immediately, new rules could impact your grocery budget and shopping habits in the months ahead.
Read next: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
Do you think these proposed restrictions are helpful or too limiting? Should SNAP benefits be used only for nutritious items, or should recipients have more freedom to decide what goes in their carts? Have you seen this debate come up in your area?
Let us know in the comments. At The GrayVine, we believe respectful discussion helps us all learn and grow—especially when it comes to important issues like food, health, and access.
From fresh produce to pantry staples, SNAP has been a critical support for families nationwide.
But now, a new wave of state-level proposals could change what items SNAP benefits actually cover.
And if you like having a soda or the occasional sweet treat in your cart, those options may soon be off the table.
Ohio is leading the charge with a new plan that could reshape the grocery experience for thousands of households.
Grocery shoppers may soon see changes to what items are covered by food benefits. Image Source: YouTube / CBS News.
A move toward healthier purchases
SNAP was created in 1964 to help low-income Americans buy nutritious food.
But in recent years, researchers and lawmakers have raised concerns about how much of those benefits are spent on less nutritious items.
One USDA study found that nearly 20 percent of SNAP dollars go toward products like soda, candy, chips, and other snack foods.
Prompted in part by the Trump administration's "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, some lawmakers now want to put stricter limits on what SNAP recipients can buy.
Sweetened beverages are the latest target, and that includes sodas, sugary juices, and other sweet drinks.
If new proposals move forward, these could be among the first items struck from the list of SNAP-eligible purchases.
Also read: The USDA’s latest move—how it could shake up your food habits and grocery list
Ohio takes the lead
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has launched a new task force called the "Working Group on the Submission of a SNAP Waiver."
This group includes public health experts, state leaders, and industry representatives who are working together to identify specific products that should no longer be covered by SNAP benefits.
“I support not using SNAP to purchase these beverages,” Governor DeWine said.
However, instead of banning all sugary drinks outright, the group will recommend certain products for exclusion to minimize red tape and confusion at checkout.
Their report is due by September 28, with a final waiver request to be submitted to the USDA by October 28.
If approved, Ohio could become one of the first states in the country to implement these more targeted restrictions.
Also read: What SNAP changes could mean for your grocery budget—23 governors speak out
What would change for SNAP shoppers?
SNAP recipients would still be able to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, and cereal—those staples remain untouched.
But sweetened beverages are not the only items under review.
Other “extras,” such as candy, chips, ice cream, and prepared desserts, may also be reconsidered.
SNAP already prohibits certain purchases, including alcohol, cigarettes, hot prepared foods, and non-food items like paper towels or cleaning products.
These new proposals would expand that list, encouraging SNAP users to stick to healthier food choices.
Also read: SNAP benefits hit by massive scam surge—are your funds at risk?
Other states are exploring similar changes
Ohio is not alone in this effort.
At least six states have already received federal approval to restrict SNAP purchases of junk food and sugary drinks.
Several more states are awaiting decisions from the USDA.
The movement has received bipartisan backing. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins noted, “This isn’t about politics—it’s about working together to improve the nation’s health.”
One state is planning to block soda and energy drink purchases with SNAP starting next year.
If successful, this could influence other states to follow suit.
Also read: Could a SNAP benefits error cost your state millions? Here’s what taxpayers need to know
Balancing health goals with personal freedom
Still, the proposal is not without critics. Some argue that these rules are overly controlling or even insulting to SNAP recipients.
Others raise concerns about implementation.
Will cashiers have to memorize a list of restricted products? Will it create longer lines and frustration at the checkout counter?
Many also believe occasional treats should still be allowed.
A candy bar or a soda here and there, some argue, should be a personal choice—not a government decision.
Proponents, on the other hand, point to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension—particularly in low-income communities.
They argue that SNAP funds should promote wellness, not contribute to chronic health problems.
Also read: Are your SNAP benefits about to change? New legislation could impact what you can buy
What’s ahead for SNAP and food access?
Ohio’s working group will meet over the coming weeks to gather feedback and finalize its recommendations.
Their findings may not only affect Ohio, but also set a precedent for other states considering similar restrictions.
If you or a loved one uses SNAP, this is a good time to stay informed.
Even if nothing changes immediately, new rules could impact your grocery budget and shopping habits in the months ahead.
Read next: Your favorite restaurants could soon accept SNAP benefits—here’s what you need to know!
Do you think these proposed restrictions are helpful or too limiting? Should SNAP benefits be used only for nutritious items, or should recipients have more freedom to decide what goes in their carts? Have you seen this debate come up in your area?
Let us know in the comments. At The GrayVine, we believe respectful discussion helps us all learn and grow—especially when it comes to important issues like food, health, and access.
