SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods take effect in five states Jan. 1
ABC7 Los Angeles••nation
Key Points:
- Starting January 1, five states (Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia) have implemented new restrictions on the purchase of soda, candy, and certain other foods using SNAP benefits as part of a federal push to improve diet quality and reduce chronic diseases.
- The restrictions are part of Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins' Make America Healthy Again initiative, aiming to reduce obesity and diabetes linked to sugary drinks and treats.
- Retailers and health experts warn the new rules may cause confusion, longer checkout lines, and increased costs, estimating an initial $1.6 billion expense for U.S. stores and ongoing annual costs, while research remains inconclusive on the effectiveness of purchase restrictions in improving
