Three states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
Hundreds of thousands of food stamp recipients across Arkansas , Idaho and Utah will soon be banned from using their benefits to buy sugary snacks and sodas. It the latest part of a sweeping new crackdown backed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps low-income families pay for groceries.
The three Republican-led states have been granted waivers to restrict purchases with food stamp, aligning with Kennedy's 'Make America Healthy Again' campaign. The bans, which mirror similar restrictions already approved in Indiana, Iowa and Nebraska , will block the use of SNAP funds on items like candy, soft drinks and other ultra-processed sugar-laden products.
Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins said the move reflects a broader push under the Trump administration to promote healthier eating habits while protecting taxpayer dollars. 'The Trump Administration is unified in improving the health of our nation,' she said. 'America's governors have proudly answered the call to innovate by improving nutrition programs, ensuring better choices while respecting the generosity of the American taxpayer.'
The changes will kick in on January 1, 2026 in Idaho and Utah. Arkansas will follow on July 1, 2026. Critics have long argued that restricting SNAP purchases is a form of government overreach, while supporters say it's a necessary step to address America’s obesity and diabetes crisis, which disproportionately impacts low-income communities. The push for SNAP restrictions had been going on for years, and some are already on alcohol, tobacco, hot and prepared foods, and personal care products.
However, Nebraska got the ball rolling on the latest restrictions of soda and energy drinks, which will be implemented for at least two years . 'There's absolutely zero reason for taxpayers to be subsidizing purchases of soda and energy drinks,' said Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen.
Indiana and Idaho approved the restrictions a few days later. Indiana's restrictions will be on soft drinks and Candy, while Idaho's will be on soda and candy. Arkansas and Iowa SNAP recipients will have a high amount of restrictions compared to other states.
Arkansas' waivers excludes low and no-calorie soda, fruit and vegetable drinks with less than 50% natural juice, and candy. Iowa excludes any food item eligible for sales tax such sweetened beverages, snacks and candy. 'This approval sends a clear message: President Trump and his administration are tackling America's chronic disease epidemic and Arkansas stands with him in that fight,' said Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders .
'Arkansas leads the nation in getting unhealthy, ultra-processed foods off food stamps and helping our most vulnerable citizens lead healthier lives.' Kennedy, a government official known for his strong opinions of processed food , praised the six states planning to enable these restrictions.
'I call on every governor in the nation to submit a SNAP waiver to eliminate sugary drinks—taxpayer dollars should never bankroll products that fuel the chronic disease epidemic,' he said. Besides these states, Montana, Arizona, Texas, Missouri, Tennessee, and West Virginia have considered or proposed bills for similar restrictions. It is unclear if restrictions will take affect in these other states next year if the bills are passed.
