By 2026, six more states —Florida, Texas, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and West Virginia— will implement new restrictions on the products that can be purchased with SNAP benefits (food stamps or the EBT card). These restrictions will prevent the purchase of sodas, candy, energy drinks, and packaged desserts in several of those states.
An Expansion of the “Make America Healthy Again” Movement
These measures are part of a federal initiative aimed at promoting healthier eating habits. Together, these six states join another six that had already adopted similar restrictions earlier in 2025.
Details of the Restrictions by State
- All states will ban sugary drinks such as sodas.
- Florida and Louisiana will also prohibit candy and energy drinks.
- Some jurisdictions provide detailed definitions of what qualifies as candy or sugary beverages, while others use broader criteria.
Arguments For and Against
Supporters of the measure argue that it seeks to improve public health and eliminate state subsidies for low-nutrient products. On the other hand, critics warn that these restrictions could complicate access to affordable food in rural or underserved areas and do not guarantee lasting improvements in diets.
National Outlook
With this new group of states, a total of twelve have already received authorization to impose restrictions on certain products purchasable with SNAP. The trend suggests a more restrictive and nutrition-focused approach to the use of these benefits.