A new law is changing what people can buy with SNAP benefits, the government program that helps low-income families buy food. Snacks like candy and dried fruit may no longer be allowed, and many shoppers are upset.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that SNAP recipients can no longer use their benefits to buy soda. Several states, including West Virginia, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, have agreed to the change.
Kennedy Jr. said, “For years, SNAP has used taxpayer dollars to fund soda and candy — products that fuel America’s diabetes and chronic disease epidemics. These changes help put real food back at the center of the program and encourage states to protect public health.”
Some states are taking this even further. For example, Iowa is proposing a plan that would ban SNAP benefits from buying not just soda but also:
- Candy and candy-coated products, including gum and marshmallows
- Sweetened dried fruit and fruit leathers
- Chocolate with sugar or other sweeteners
- Granola bars with sugar or chocolate
- Sweetened popcorn, like kettle corn
- Most soft drinks and sugary beverages
People on Reddit reacted strongly to Iowa’s proposal. Many argued that limiting what people can buy with SNAP benefits is unfair, confusing, and makes shopping harder. One comment said, “This is so dumb. Let people buy what they want with their benefits. Micro-managing like this isn’t the answer. Support should focus on jobs, healthcare, and getting people off assistance.”
Critics say these new rules could treat families and veterans unfairly and make life more difficult for people already struggling. Supporters, however, believe the rules encourage healthier eating.
The debate shows the tension between improving public health and giving people freedom to choose how to use government assistance.
