Federal SNAP Rules on Beverages
Under federal guidelines for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), most food items intended for consumption at home are eligible for purchase with an EBT card. Generally, items with a 'Nutrition Facts' label, including cold, non-alcoholic beverages like soda and soft drinks, are eligible. However, hot beverages and alcoholic drinks are typically ineligible.
The federal allowance for sugary drinks in SNAP has been debated, with some arguing it contributes to health problems, while others contend restrictions stigmatize recipients and that SNAP participants' spending on soda is comparable to the general population. Historically, the USDA denied state requests to restrict specific foods, but this is changing with approved state waivers.
The Rise of State-Specific Soda Bans
Numerous states have received USDA approval to prohibit certain items, including soda, from being purchased with SNAP benefits. These state-level bans, largely taking effect in 2026, aim to promote healthier eating but introduce varied rules depending on location. This means an item eligible in one state may not be in another, potentially causing confusion at checkout.
States Implementing New Restrictions (Starting 2026)
A dozen states have been approved for waivers to ban or restrict sugary drinks and other items with SNAP benefits starting in 2026. These include: Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia. Specific restrictions vary by state, often targeting soda, flavored waters, juice drinks with low fruit content, and artificially sweetened beverages.
How State Waivers Impact Shoppers
SNAP participants in states with new bans must use alternative payment methods like cash or a debit card for ineligible items. This can complicate grocery shopping and has raised concerns from advocacy groups about potential delays and stigma. Some research suggests these bans may not significantly improve health outcomes and could be seen as an unnecessary restriction on low-income individuals. Advocates often emphasize that addressing broader issues like access to healthy foods and nutrition education would be more impactful.
Eligible vs. Ineligible Drinks with SNAP
The general rule is that cold, non-alcoholic drinks with a 'Nutrition Facts' label are federally eligible, but state waivers in 2026 will alter this in many areas. Hot prepared drinks and alcoholic beverages are generally ineligible.
| Eligible Drinks (Generally) | Ineligible Drinks (Generally) |
|---|---|
| Soda and soft drinks (subject to state bans) | Hot beverages prepared for immediate consumption |
| Bottled water, sparkling water, seltzer | Alcoholic beverages |
| Juice and juice concentrates | Energy drinks with a 'Supplement Facts' label |
| Milk and milk-based drinks | Vending machine purchases |
| Energy drinks with a 'Nutrition Facts' label | Any beverage purchased at a bar or liquor store |
| Coffee beans, ground coffee, tea bags |
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
Whether you can buy soda with food stamps now depends heavily on your state and will become even more complex with the 2026 state-level bans. These waivers create varied rules across the country, requiring SNAP recipients to be vigilant about local regulations. The ongoing discussion highlights the balance between public health goals and ensuring dignified access to food for low-income families. Organizations like the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities advocate against these restrictions. These changes represent a significant shift in SNAP administration and will impact many recipients.
Can you buy soda on food stamps?
It depends on your state. While federally permitted, many states are banning sugary drinks with SNAP benefits starting in 2026.
What is an EBT card?
An EBT card, or Electronic Benefits Transfer card, is the modern equivalent of food stamps, used to deliver SNAP benefits to recipients.
What states are banning soda with EBT?
As of late 2025, states including Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Colorado, Florida, and West Virginia have approved waivers.
When do the new SNAP restrictions start?
Most of the new state-level restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2026, though some have slightly different start dates.
Does the federal government support the new SNAP soda bans?
Yes, the USDA, the federal body overseeing SNAP, has granted waivers to allow states to impose these restrictions, signaling a shift in federal policy.
What can't you buy with SNAP benefits?
Common ineligible items include hot prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, supplements, pet food, and household supplies.
Is sparkling water allowed with EBT?
Yes, sparkling water and seltzer are generally allowed, but check for potential restrictions in states like Utah and Iowa, which are banning sweetened or flavored versions.
What is a "soft drink" under new SNAP rules?
In the context of the new bans, a "soft drink" generally refers to a non-alcoholic sweetened or carbonated beverage, including soda, but the specific definition can vary by state.
Can I buy energy drinks with SNAP?
It depends on the label and your state. If an energy drink has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it's typically eligible, but some states like Nebraska are banning specific types.
Why are states banning sugary drinks from SNAP?
Proponents argue it's to promote public health and combat chronic diseases like diabetes, while opponents say it unjustly restricts food choices for low-income families.
What should I do if my state bans soda from SNAP?
Check the specific rules for your state and be prepared to use a separate form of payment for any newly ineligible items at the grocery store.
