Some U.S. states want to ban food stamp recipients from buying soda and candy. Here’s why.

The federal food stamp program is under scrutiny in certain states as they aim to restrict the use of government benefits to purchase soda and candy. Three Republican-led states – Arkansas, Idaho, and Indiana – have recently taken steps to ban the use of Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits on these items. This move affects approximately 1 million residents who are SNAP recipients in these states out of the total 41.7 million participants nationwide.

Several other states, including Arizona, Kansas, and Tennessee, are also considering similar measures to limit the purchase of sugary foods and drinks by SNAP recipients. The rationale behind these restrictions is to promote healthier eating habits among low-income Americans. However, anti-hunger advocates argue that such restrictions may further stigmatize food aid recipients and are unlikely to improve their overall dietary choices.

Gina Plata-Nino, the SNAP deputy director at the Food & Research Action Center, suggests that instead of focusing on restricting certain food items, states should address the high cost of groceries, especially fresh fruits and vegetables. With the average monthly SNAP benefit amounting to $187 per individual, many recipients are forced to prioritize purchasing the most affordable and calorie-dense foods available.

During the pandemic, grocery prices surged by almost 24% from 2020 to 2024, outpacing overall inflation rates. The U.S. Department of Agriculture forecasts a further 2.7% increase in food prices in 2025, adding to the financial challenges faced by SNAP recipients in accessing nutritious food options.

In response to the SNAP restrictions, Idaho Governor Brad Little and Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders have expressed support for the “make America healthy again” movement, advocating for a ban on soda and candy purchases with food stamps. However, critics argue that such restrictions may not significantly impact the dietary habits of SNAP recipients and could potentially increase the stigma associated with receiving food assistance.

The proposed Arkansas plan, set to take effect in July 2026, includes excluding soda, unhealthy drinks, candy, and artificially sweetened confections from SNAP purchases. It also introduces new allowances for items like hot rotisserie chicken while prohibiting the use of benefits on non-food items, alcohol, and tobacco.

Industry representatives, including American Beverage and the National Confectioners Association, have criticized the SNAP restrictions, labeling them as misguided and unnecessary interventions in individual food choices.

Despite the pushback, the Trump administration is signaling support for granting the waivers requested by states to implement these restrictions. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized the need to improve nutrition programs and reduce dependency on government assistance, aligning with the administration’s focus on addressing chronic disease and promoting healthier lifestyles.

While the debate continues on whether taxpayers should subsidize unhealthy eating habits through SNAP benefits, the overarching goal remains to support individuals in need while encouraging healthier food choices and long-term wellness.