New restrictions on what Texans can buy with SNAP benefits took effect Wednesday, limiting purchases of most candy and sweetened beverages under a new state law aimed at encouraging healthier food choices. These changes apply to all recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Texas, serving more than 3.5 million people statewide, including children, seniors, veterans, and working families.

What Items are Now Restricted?

Under the updated policy, SNAP benefits can no longer be used to purchase most drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners, as well as candy items. This rule is being administered by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), following approval from lawmakers during the 2025 legislative session.

Specifically, the restrictions include:

  • Most drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners, including many sodas and sports drinks
  • Candy items
  • Nuts, raisins, or fruits that are candied, crystallized, glazed, or coated with chocolate, yogurt, or caramel

What Can Still Be Purchased with SNAP?

SNAP benefits can still be used to purchase most staple foods, including fruits and vegetables, meat, bread, dairy products, and pantry items. Exceptions to the beverage restrictions include:

  • Milk and milk substitutes such as soy or rice milk
  • Beverages with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit that contain less than 5 grams of added sugar

Why the Change?

State officials state the goal is to direct SNAP dollars toward more nutritious food options. “This change was made to comply with Senate Bill 379, which prohibits the use of SNAP benefits to purchase less healthy foods like candy and sweetened drinks,” the Texas HHSC said in a statement. “The intent is to encourage the purchase of nutritious foods, such as fruits and vegetables.”

Expert Perspectives on Reducing Sugar Intake

Nutrition experts emphasize the broad health benefits of reducing added sugar, particularly for children. “When we’re thinking about lowering sugar consumption, we want to focus on foods with added sugars,” said Mikie Rangel, a clinical dietitian with Children’s Health. “Foods with added sugars tend to be higher in calories and lower in nutrition, which can lead to excessive weight gain when they’re overconsumed.”

Rangel also noted that reducing added sugar can improve dental health and stabilize blood sugar levels. While acknowledging the potential benefit of sports drinks during intense physical activity, she pointed out their high sugar content. “When a child is sweating and active for more than an hour, they’re losing fluids and electrolytes,” Rangel said. “In those situations, sports drinks can be helpful.”

Concerns and Future Monitoring

Food access advocates anticipate a learning curve for families adjusting to the new rules. “There’s definitely going to be a learning curve,” said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas. “People may wonder, ‘Why can I buy Pedialyte but not Gatorade?’ That’s a gray area that’s going to raise questions.”

Retailers have also expressed concerns about potential revenue loss, particularly given the current economic climate. As part of a federal waiver, Texas is required to survey SNAP recipients before and after the rollout to assess whether the restrictions lead to healthier food choices and to monitor for any unintended consequences.