The governor said, “By restricting unhealthy foods from being purchased with SNAP benefits, Texas can help ensure the health and well-being of Texans.” He said, “The new SNAP guidelines will ensure taxpayer dollars are used to purchase foods that provide real nutritional value.”
Earlier this year, Governor Abbott submitted a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service requesting a waiver to prohibit SNAP benefits from being used to purchase sweetened drinks and candy.
Starting April 1, 2026, recipients will not be allowed to use SNAP benefits to purchase candy, drinks containing artificial sweeteners, or drinks containing five grams or more of added sugar. HHSC is educating retailers on SNAP eligible foods and enforcement.
