Florida bans soda and candy for SNAP users in 2026
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Florida is among a few states that have narrowed their list of food eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP) this week to exclude sugary snacks and drinks.
Why it matters: Starting next year, more than a million families in the state will no longer be able to use their benefits to buy a box of Little Debbie's, a liter of Coca-Cola or a Hershey bar at the checkout.
The big picture: Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. outlined his "Make America Healthy Again" campaign in April, encouraging states to restrict SNAP purchases to ensure taxpayer dollars go toward "wholesome foods."
- One study found little difference between purchases made by households with SNAP and those without benefits, with 20 cents of every dollar spent on sweetened beverages, desserts, candy and sugar.
How it works: SNAP, often called food stamps, helps low-income families, seniors and people with disabilities buy groceries.
- Five other states — Colorado, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas and West Virginia — were approved to restrict eligible food on Monday.
- Before these changes, SNAP recipients were already prohibited from using their benefits to purchase alcohol, tobacco, hot and prepared foods and personal care items, according to a press release.
Zoom in: Florida amended its statutory definition of food to exclude:
- Candy, which the state defined as sugar or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, caramels and gummies.
- Prepared desserts, which the state defined as processed, pre-packaged sweet foods intended for immediate consumption.
- Soda, which the state defined as a beverage that is made with carbonated water and flavored with sugar or artificial sweeteners.
- Energy drinks, which the state defined as a beverage with at least 65 milligrams of caffeine per 8 fluid ounces that are marketed as increasing the consumer's mental and physical energy.
Yes, but: Drinks like sparkling water and coffee are still eligible.
What they're saying: "In Florida, we are ensuring SNAP supports nutritious options that help families thrive, not unhealthy products that lead to long-term health problems," Gov. Ron DeSantis said in a statement.
- "Thank you to President Trump for approving our waiver request."
The other side: "Because these products are inexpensive, banning SNAP use on them won't have the desired effect," Christopher Bosso, a political science professor at Northeastern University, wrote in an op-ed for The Hill.
- "SNAP enrollees simply will use other funds on them," Bosso went on. "After all, SNAP is 'supplemental,' and most enrolled households have cash on hand to spend $3 on that 2-liter bottle of Pepsi if they want one."
What's next: The restrictions go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.