HOUSTON – Millions of Texans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will see new restrictions on what they can purchase starting April 1, 2026, when a state-approved change takes effect, limiting certain sugary products.
The update means SNAP recipients will no longer be able to use their Lone Star Card to buy candy or sweetened drinks, including sodas and beverages with artificial sweeteners or five grams or more of added sugar.
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The change comes after Texas received federal approval for a waiver allowing the state to modify which foods qualify for SNAP purchases. State leaders say the goal is to encourage healthier food choices by restricting items that offer little nutritional value.
Under the new rules in Texas, SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase:
- Candy, including chocolate bars, gummies, gum and other confectionery sweets
- Sweetened beverages, such as sodas
- Drinks with artificial sweeteners
- Non-alcoholic beverages containing five grams or more of added sugar
Previously, SNAP recipients could buy many snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks with their benefits, as long as the items had a nutrition label. The new restrictions mark the first time Texas has targeted specific foods like candy and sugary drinks for exclusion.
The changes do not affect many common grocery purchases. SNAP benefits can still be used to buy foods such as:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry and fish
- Dairy products
- Bread and cereals
- Other grocery staples intended for home consumption
Additionally, many snack foods, such as chips, popcorn and baked goods, are still allowed under SNAP rules, as long as they do not fall under the new definition of candy or sweetened beverages.
Other items already restricted under SNAP
Even before the April change, SNAP benefits could not be used to purchase several categories of items, including:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Hot prepared foods ready to eat
- Non-food items like cosmetics, household products or pet food
About 3.5 million Texans rely on SNAP benefits to help buy groceries. State officials say retailers across Texas are being notified of the changes so systems can be updated before the April 1 start date.
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission will oversee implementation and work with stores to ensure the new guidelines are followed once the restrictions go into effect.
Officials say the policy shift is part of a broader effort to promote healthier eating habits and ensure taxpayer-funded benefits are used to purchase foods with more nutritional value