Millions of SNAP Recipients Will Soon Face a Huge Ban on Popular Foods – Here’s Who’s Affected

In efforts to change how food aid is sent, there has been six more U.S. states that received government approval to ban the purchasing of junk food when using the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. This change had been announced by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and will affect millions of beneficiaries throughout the country. It also assists with promoting the purchase of healthier and nutritious items amongst low-income families.

States Taking Action

States such as West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas are the latest to receive waivers from the USDA allowing them to limit what can be bought with SNAP. In 2026 these waivers will be effective and will affect approximately 8.5 million people. This will then bring the total number of states who are implementing such ban, to 12. States which achieved a similar approval this year Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, and Utah.

What Does This Mean for SNAP Users?

SNAP was previously referred to as food stamps and this provides financial aid for purchasing groceries. This was beneficial to over 40 million Americans who struggle financially. The benefits are sent out monthly through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards and this can be used at authorized retailers.

Once these waivers are approved, there will be several snack items that beneficiaries will not be allowed to purchase:

• Texas will ban the purchase for soda, candy, energy drinks, and desserts.
• Louisiana will restrict soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy.
• Colorado and West Virginia will only cut off soft drinks.
• Florida, Oklahoma, and others will also target sugary beverages and candy.

Why These Changes Matter

There are many people who support because they say that government aid should not be used to buy unhealthy products as these products increase the risks of diabetes, obesity and other diseases. This is considered to be a way forward in terms of reducing health burdens and improving the quality of life.

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy voiced his support, saying:

“These waivers help put real food back at the centre of the program and empower states to lead the charge in protecting public health. This is how we Make America Healthy Again.”

Texas Governor Greg Abbott also praised the move,

“To ensure the health and well-being of Texans, we must promote better, healthier food habits.”

A Divisive Issue

Regardless of the positive reasons why this is favourable, there are still many who disagree with the approach. Critics state that trying to control what SNAP beneficiaries purchase, is a form of food policing.

Kavelle Christie, a public health advocate and director at the Center for Regulatory Policy and Health Innovation, highlighted the role of accessibility:

“The issue isn’t about individuals misusing their benefits, but their limited choices. In many rural areas and food deserts, convenience stores and fast-food chains are often the only available options.”

What’s Next?

Even though the USDA approved the waivers, it will take some time for the changes to be implemented. These will be effective early to middle of 2026. As it stands, SNAP beneficiaries in the affected states can use their benefits are normal.

Here’s an overview of when the new rules begin:

While these rules are becoming effective, there will be a lot of criticism surrounding the issue. Even though some people view this in positive light, there are many who view it in a negative light stating that it would pose more strain on those who are already burdened.