A new piece of legislation known as the Healthy SNAP Act seeks to change the eligible foods within the SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) program.
If passed, this legislation would remove sodas, ice cream, candy, and prepared desserts from the list of eligible purchases with Food Stamps. The measure addresses public health concerns and aims to promote healthier eating habits among the program’s more than 42 million beneficiaries.
The six states that will apply restrictions
Although the law is still pending federal approval, six states have already announced plans to implement local restrictions beginning in 2026. These are the states of Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Tennessee, Alabama, and Louisiana. In these areas, SNAP recipients will not be able to use their EBT cards to purchase junk food.
Objective: To improve public health
The primary goal of these restrictions is to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods by vulnerable populations. According to the USDA, the change aims to bring the SNAP program in line with current nutritional recommendations, while also taking into account cultural and medical concerns. Furthermore, this measure is expected to help reduce health-care system costs, particularly those associated with diseases like diabetes and obesity.
Which products will continue to be eligible?
Despite the restrictions, SNAP recipients will still be able to purchase foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals and non-alcoholic beverages. The purchase of seeds and edible plants will also be allowed, as long as they are intended for home consumption.
Impact on beneficiaries
The measure has generated divided opinions. Some public health advocates welcome the initiative as a step toward more conscious eating. However, community organizations warn that limiting options could affect beneficiaries’ autonomy and create confusion at authorized retailers.
Changes to the SNAP payment schedule
In addition to food restrictions, the SNAP payment schedule will be adjusted in 2026. According to the USDA, the new COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment) adjusted amounts will become effective in October 2025. Each state has its own schedule for distributing benefits, and payments will be adjusted to reflect the new limits and conditions.
SNAP will be transformed in 2026
With the implementation of the Healthy SNAP Act and new state policies, the SNAP program is about to undergo a significant transformation. The six states leading the way may signal the start of a national reform in how food benefits are distributed and used in the United States.
