Summary
Nearly half of the U.S. states are changing rules for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to limit the purchase of junk food, such as sugary drinks and candy, with food stamps. These changes require a federal waiver and aim to improve nutrition but have sparked debate over their potential impact.
Key Facts
- SNAP, also known as food stamps, helps more than 40 million Americans buy groceries.
- SNAP benefits traditionally cover most grocery items, but not alcohol, tobacco, or vitamins.
- Several states have received approval to ban certain junk foods from being bought with SNAP benefits.
- Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Utah, and West Virginia already have new rules in place.
- Other states plan to implement similar measures by 2026 or 2027.
- States need a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to impose these additional limits.
- Some states propose banning items like soda, energy drinks, candy, and desserts.
- The changes are part of a broader health initiative led by President Trump and supported by some federal leaders.
