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2h ago

Texas Sets April 1 Start for SNAP Ban on Candy, Gum and Sweetened Drinks

Texas health officials launched a final outreach push to prepare recipients and retailers for the new purchasing limits.

Stock image/file photo: Man using cart in grocery store.
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Overview

  • HHSC reminded SNAP users that Lone Star Cards cannot be used for candy, gum or specified sweetened drinks beginning April 1.
  • About 3.3 million Texans who receive SNAP benefits will be affected by the change.
  • Sweetened drinks are defined as nonalcoholic, water-based beverages with at least 5 grams of added sugar or any artificial sweetener, with exclusions for milk, milk substitutes and drinks that are more than 50% juice.
  • Candy is broadly defined to include confections and candied or coated nuts, raisins or fruits, while products intended only for cooking such as chocolate chips and sprinkles remain eligible.
  • The policy stems from Senate Bill 379 and a USDA waiver approved in August 2025, and Texas has issued bilingual materials and retailer toolkits as similar restrictions are already in place in several other states.