New SNAP restrictions set to begin April 1

Beginning April 1, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients in Texas can no longer use their benefits to buy candy or sweetened drinks.  The change came following a 2025 letter from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott to the U.S. Department of Agriculture requesting a waiver to prohibit SNAP benefits from being used to make the purchases.

“Texas is leading the way in aligning SNAP benefits with healthier food options,” Abbott said.  “By implementing these changes, we encourage better nutrition and ensure this program helps families access nutritional food.”

The restrictions mean SNAP benefits cannot be used to purchase candy, gum, sweetened drinks or fruit, raisins and nuts that have been candied, crystallized, glazed or coated with chocolate, yogurt or caramel.  SNAP will still allow recipients to buy foods like fruits and vegetables, meats, cereals, milk, plants and garden seeds.

For more information, visit www.hhs.texas.gov.