SNAP shake-up: New food bans and rules hit this week — what millions must know now

Several U.S. states are starting new SNAP food rules from April, changing what people can buy with benefits. These changes are happening because states are using federal waivers to limit sugary drinks and candy purchases. About 22 states have added restrictions, but many of them are not active yet. SNAP helps around 40 million low-income Americans buy groceries at home.

Texas will ban buying candy and sweetened drinks with SNAP starting April 1, 2026. The Texas rule comes after a 2025 state law and federal waiver approval. Texas defines sweetened drinks as non-alcoholic beverages with 5 grams or more added sugar per serving or any artificial sweetener.

Texas SNAP food ban

Milk, milk substitutes, drinks with over 50% fruit or vegetable juice, and medical electrolyte drinks are allowed, as per State guidance cited by Newsweek. Texas will also block SNAP purchases of candy bars, gum, taffy, and candied fruits or nuts coated in chocolate, yogurt, or caramel. Some snacks like granola bars and popcorn will still be allowed under SNAP.

Other states new rules

West Virginia already started a soda ban on January 1, 2026. Retailers in West Virginia were given until April 1 to fully follow the rule. SNAP shoppers in West Virginia may now see some purchases blocked at checkout. Colorado also approved sugary drink restrictions but delayed implementation beyond April 30. Colorado expects a final board vote on April 3, so no new limits start this week. Florida will remove soda, energy drinks, candy, and prepared desserts from SNAP purchases starting April 20.

Leaders react to changes

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said SNAP should “nourish vulnerable Americans” and focus on healthier food. He added the changes aim to improve access to real food and reduce chronic disease risks.Greg Abbott said restricting unhealthy foods will improve Texans’ health and ensure taxpayer money buys nutritious items, as cited by Newsweek. Abbott also thanked federal officials for approving Texas’ waiver. Center for Budget and Policy Priorities criticized the move, saying SNAP helps over 41 million people each month.

What happens next

The group warned policing grocery choices may make the program harder to use. Texas shoppers will begin seeing register blocks on banned sweets and drinks this week. Texas will survey SNAP users before and after the rollout to see if people buy healthier food, as noted by Newsweek. West Virginia retailers must fully follow the rules by April 1. Millions of SNAP users will see new limits on sugary drinks and candy starting this week, with more states adding rules later in April.

FAQs

Q1. What foods are banned under the new SNAP rules?

Sugary drinks, soda, candy, and some desserts are being restricted in states like Texas and Florida, depending on when each rule starts.

Q2. When will SNAP shoppers start seeing the changes?

Some shoppers will see blocks from April 1 in Texas and West Virginia, while other states will roll out changes later in April.