Starting in 2026, millions of Americans relying on SNAP benefits to feed their families will face new rules on what they can and can’t buy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture just approved 12 states to block purchases of certain junk food items like soda, candy, energy drinks, and other sugary snacks with food stamp benefits.
This move is part of the Trump Administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” initiative, which aims to reduce obesity and chronic disease in low-income communities by eliminating government-subsidized access to unhealthy food. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are leading the charge.
Nebraska was the first state to receive the waiver, and now 11 more are joining the list: Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Utah, Florida, West Virginia, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. These states will each enforce their own version of the ban starting as early as January 1, 2026, with some going into effect mid-year.
Under the new guidelines, SNAP users in these states won’t be able to use their EBT cards to purchase items like soda, chips, candy, and prepared desserts. The goal, according to federal officials, is to better align food assistance with nutritional standards and public health goals.
