USDA Expands SNAP Soda Ban to Six States

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has approved waivers for six states—West Virginia, Florida, Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas—allowing them to restrict the purchase of soda, energy drinks, and candy with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits starting in 2026. This policy, part of the 'Make America Healthy Again' initiative, is expected to affect about 8.5 million people and aims to encourage healthier food choices among SNAP recipients to address obesity and diabetes. Colorado stands out as the first blue state to implement the waiver, specifically targeting sugary drinks but continuing to permit milk-based and 100% juice drinks. The reforms are supported by state leaders and federal officials, including Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who say the changes will help ensure taxpayer funds are used for nutritious foods. Public opposition remains, especially in West Virginia, though momentum for restricting junk food purchases with SNAP is growing nationally. In total, 12 states now have similar bans or waivers in place.