The Trump Administration has announced a series of changes aimed at promoting healthier food choices for Americans receiving assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has been working closely with state governments to encourage limits on the purchase of items such as sugary drinks, candy, and other snack foods using SNAP benefits.
SNAP, which is funded by the federal government and administered by the states, helps low-income households purchase food. While federal rules prevent states from unilaterally banning certain items, states can request waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to make changes to what qualifies as eligible food purchases under the program.
Over the past several months, twelve states have successfully obtained such waivers. Most recently, West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas received approval to restrict certain items. They join Nebraska, Iowa, Indiana, Arkansas, Idaho, and Utah, which had previously been granted similar waivers.
All twelve states will limit the purchase of sugary beverages like soda. Eight of the states will also prohibit candy purchases, and at least three will include restrictions on energy drinks. Some states are even adding guidelines to limit fruit juices containing less than 50% real juice.
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