🚨 SNAP Restrictions on Soda and Candy Impacting Louisiana Families 🍬🚫

New restrictions on purchases made with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are taking effect in several states, including Louisiana, as part of a broader effort to encourage healthier eating among recipients.

Beginning this year, SNAP benefits in Louisiana can no longer be used to purchase:

• Soft drinks
• Energy drinks
• Candy
• Gum
• Similar items

The change follows federal approval allowing states to limit certain food purchases made with SNAP funds, with the goal of improving nutrition and reducing diet-related health problems.

State officials say the restrictions are intended to encourage families to focus SNAP benefits on healthier food options, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products and staple grocery items. The ban applies only to SNAP funds and does not prevent individuals from purchasing restricted items with cash or other forms of payment.

Impact in Avoyelles

In Avoyelles Parish, the change will affect households that rely on SNAP benefits when shopping at local grocery stores and markets. Retailers and assistance offices are working to ensure families are aware of the updated rules to help prevent confusion at checkout.

Some local advocates say the restrictions may help promote healthier eating habits, while others express concern that limiting choices could be challenging for families managing tight food budgets, particularly in rural areas where access to fresh foods may be limited.

SNAP still covers

Despite the new restrictions, SNAP benefits continue to cover a wide range of essential food items, including:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry and fish
• Dairy products
• Bread, cereal and grains

Eligibility requirements and benefit amounts remain unchanged.

National trend

Louisiana joins several other states that have adopted similar SNAP restrictions as part of a nationwide push to address nutrition-related health concerns. Federal officials say the changes are meant to support long-term health outcomes while keeping SNAP focused on providing access to basic, nutritious foods.

State agencies say they will continue monitoring how the changes affect families and retailers as the policy moves forward.