At least 12 states have received federal approval to restrict recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, from using their benefits to purchase certain foods such as soda and candy.

At least 12 states have received federal approval to restrict recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, from using their benefits to purchase certain foods such as soda and candy.

The new waivers, which go into effect in 2026, mean families will no longer be able to purchase products like soda or candy using their SNAP benefits. Some argue that this means families can no longer buy goods that may be used in celebrations like birthday parties or gatherings. However, the reforms differ state by state.