Texas Bans Candy, Soda on SNAP: Healthier Choices

0:00Starting April 1st, 2026, Texans on snap benefits can no longer use their loan-star cards to buy candy, gum, or sugary drinks. That means no candy bars, taffy, candy nuts, or beverages with 5 grams or more of added sugar, including sports drinks with artificial, sweeteners. The rule targets the 3,300,000 people relying on the program. The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a waiver for this in August 2025. Governor Greg Abbott and the Trump administration backed the shift to encourage healthier choices and better long-term outcomes for recipients. Critics worry it hits low-income family's hardest since many shop at convenience stores or gas stations without easy access to fresh produce. They note data shows snap users do not buy much candy or soda anyway. You can still purchase fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, breads, cereals, and drinks, like milk or those with over 50% fruit or vegetable juice.

1:00State health officials are now alerting retailers and users ahead of the deadline. This policy aims to steer spending toward nutrition and early education efforts should help smooth the transition for everyone affected. This has been Dallas News Today, powered by AI.