Abilene, Texas — Texas SNAP recipients will soon face new limits on what they can buy with their Lone Star Cards, with candy and certain sweetened drinks set to be removed from the list of eligible purchases.
Texas SNAP recipients will soon face new limits on what they can buy with their Lone Star Cards, with candy and certain sweetened drinks set to be removed from the list of eligible purchases. (KTXS, Kayla Hamlett)
Under a new state law, SNAP benefits in Texas will no longer cover candy or certain sweetened beverages.
The restriction includes items such as candy bars, gum and taffy, as well as nuts, raisins or fruit that have been candied, crystallized, glazed, or coated with chocolate, yogurt or caramel.
Sweetened drinks are also included in the change. The restriction applies to beverages made with water that contain five grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener. (SBG)
Sweetened drinks are also included in the change. The restriction applies to beverages made with water that contain five grams or more of added sugar or any amount of artificial sweetener. Beverages with less than 50% fruit or vegetable juice also will not be allowed under the updated guidelines.
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The restrictions come from Senate Bill 379, passed during the 2025 Texas legislative session and signed into law later that year.
Before the change could move forward, the U.S. Department of Agriculture had to approve a waiver allowing Texas to implement the new policy.
In a press release from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, state leaders said the goal is to encourage healthier food choices and improve long-term health outcomes for families who rely on the program.
Governor Greg Abbott said the change is meant to better align SNAP benefits with healthier food options and help families access more nutritious foods. (SBG)
Governor Greg Abbott said the change is meant to better align SNAP benefits with healthier food options and help families access more nutritious foods. Health and Human Services Executive Commissioner Stephanie Muth said the policy is designed to support healthier eating habits that can last a lifetime.
Officials said all retailers in Texas that accept SNAP will be required to follow the updated guidelines.
The policy applies to anyone using SNAP benefits to buy food in the state, whether the purchase is made in a store or online. State leaders also said they are working to make sure recipients understand the new rules.
The new SNAP restrictions take effect April 1. (SBG)
The new SNAP restrictions take effect April 1.
Benefits can still be used for staple foods including fruits and vegetables; bread and cereal; meat, fish and poultry; milk, milk substitutes and dairy products; garden seeds and plants that produce food; drinks with milk or milk substitutes; and beverages with more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice.