USDA Approves Idaho, Utah, Arkansas SNAP Soda Candy Bans Starting 2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture, led by Secretary Brooke Rollins, along with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has approved waivers allowing Utah, Arkansas, and Idaho to ban the purchase of soda and candy with SNAP benefits starting in 2026. These waivers align with President Trump's initiative to improve national health through the "Make America Healthy Again" campaign, aiming to reduce consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods among SNAP recipients. Governors Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas and Brad Little of Idaho have expressed strong support for the policy changes, emphasizing the goal of providing healthier food options for vulnerable populations. The USDA data shows junk foods account for nearly 20% of SNAP purchases, underscoring the need for these reforms. Texas is also moving forward with legislation to restrict snack food purchases under SNAP, following federal encouragement to states for similar measures. Critics have raised concerns about restricting consumer choice, but supporters argue the changes promote better nutrition and public health outcomes.