6 States Restricting SNAP Food Choices (And Healthy Alternatives)

The Role of SNAP in Combating Food Insecurity

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) has played a critical role in ensuring that millions of Americans have access to nutritious food, particularly within lower-income households. In 2024, approximately 41 million people across the United States received SNAP benefits, which is about one in every eight individuals. This program helps bridge the gap between income and food affordability, making it an essential part of the social safety net.

What Can Be Purchased with SNAP Benefits?

SNAP benefits can be used to buy a variety of food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy products, grains, and certain snack items. However, there are restrictions on what can be purchased. Items such as junk food and alcoholic beverages are typically not eligible for purchase using SNAP benefits.

During the pandemic, the rules around eligible purchases were more lenient. However, some states have since reintroduced stricter guidelines, banning certain previously allowed items from being purchased with SNAP benefits.

States Implementing New Restrictions

Several states have taken steps to eliminate the pandemic-era waivers that allowed the purchase of specific food items. These changes took effect starting in 2026 and include:

• Arkansas: Starting in July 2026, soft drinks, candy, and other unhealthy beverages will no longer be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
• Idaho: As of January 2026, candy and soda are no longer allowed to be bought with SNAP benefits.
• Utah: Beginning in January, residents cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase soft drinks, including nonalcoholic beverages made with carbonated water and artificial sweeteners or sugar.
• Indiana: Effective January 2026, candy and soft drinks are no longer eligible for purchase through the SNAP program.
• Iowa: Starting next year, snacks, sweetened drinks, and candy will no longer be eligible for purchase via SNAP.
• Nebraska: As of January 2026, energy drinks and soda are excluded from SNAP purchases.

The primary goal of these new restrictions is to encourage healthier eating habits and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Healthy Alternatives to Consider

If you live in one of these states, you may need to adjust your shopping list, but there are still many nutritious options available through the SNAP program. Some general alternatives include:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Dairy products
• Cereals and breads
• Meat, fish, and poultry
• Non-alcoholic beverages
• Healthy snacks
• Plants and seeds for personal consumption

When looking for healthy snacks, consider options like applesauce, pretzels, low-fat potato chips, or popcorn. You might also find cake or brownie mixes or other baked goods eligible, but it’s always wise to check your state’s specific guidelines.

For drinks, fruit juice, lemonade, or iced tea may still be acceptable. However, be cautious of beverages that contain less than 50% natural juice or high levels of artificial sweeteners or sugars. Soda and other soft drinks are generally not eligible for purchase in the affected states.

Tips for Smart Shopping

When in doubt, look for items that come with a “Nutrition Facts” label. These are usually eligible for purchase, except for soft drinks, overly sugary foods, or sodas. Foods or drinks labeled with a “Supplement Facts” label are typically not eligible.

By making informed choices, SNAP recipients can continue to access nutritious food while adhering to the program's guidelines. These adjustments can help promote better health outcomes and support long-term well-being.